Battery-Powered Italian Plane, the SkySpark Project, Flies 155 mph

Oct. 20, 2009
Battery-powered Italian plane, the SkySpark Project, flies 155 mph.

The Italian-based SkySpark Project recently flew its battery-powered plane to a possible world speed record for electric planes: 155 mph. The two-seater Pioneer Alpi 300 aircraft is powered by a brushless 75-kW motor and lithium polymer batteries. Unlike reciprocating aviation engines, the electric motor and its controls let the pilot vary the rpms and torque. The next step is to convert from batteries to hydrogen fuel cells.

Sponsored Recommendations

Sept. 16, 2025
From robotic arms to high-speed conveyors, accuracy matters. Discover how encoders transform motor control by turning motion into real-time datadelivering tighter speed control...
Sept. 16, 2025
Keep high-torque gearboxes running efficiently with external lubrication and cooling systems delivered fast. Flexible configurations, sensor-ready monitoring, and stocked options...
Sept. 16, 2025
Now assembled in the U.S., compact P2.e planetary gear units combine maximum torque, thermal efficiency, and flexible configurations for heavy-duty applicationsavailable faster...
Sept. 16, 2025
Safety in automation goes beyond fences and emergency stops. Learn how functional safety actively monitors and controls motiondelivering smarter protection, greater flexibility...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!