ŠKODA aimed to demonstrated the possibilities of pure-electric travel on both land and in the air by pitting the new ENYAQ iV against the world’s first all-electric passenger plane, the Pipistrel Velis Electro.
Positioned at the cutting-edge of electric aviation, there are currently only two airworthy examples of the Pipistrel in the UK. The Škoda’s 82kWh battery gives it a range of up to 331 miles, the Velis Electro’s 21kWh supply provides just 45 minutes of flight time – around 125 miles at cruise – however, the plane’s 60kW powerplant can develop a top speed of 112mph.
An hour of flight time in the Pipistrel costs around £2.00 compared to £80 for fuel bill in a standard aircraft. A 100-mile journey in the ENYAQ iV cost just £4.14 in electricity, compared to £27 petrol.
The aircraft industry remains some way behind the automotive sector bigger when it comes to electrification. Fully electric short-haul planes with capacity for up to 200 passengers are not predicted to be commercially viable for at least another 10-20 years.
However, with around 19,500 light aircraft registered in the UK, and roughly 82% of the UK’s population living within 35 miles of a Category 2 airfield, the Pipistrel offers an exciting insight into the near-term benefits that electrification can soon bring to the light aircraft industry.
For more information visit www.skoda.co.uk
