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Electra Chooses Evolito to Supply Electric Engines for EL9 Hybrid Aircraft

Electra Selects Evolito to Power EL9 Hybrid Aircraft with Advanced Electric Engines
Electra has announced its selection of Evolito as the supplier of electric propulsion units (EPUs) for its EL9 hybrid aircraft, marking a pivotal advancement in the company’s pursuit of “Direct Aviation.” This innovative model aims to revolutionize regional air mobility by offering efficient, point-to-point connections. Evolito will provide high-performance EPUs that integrate lightweight motors, robust motor controllers, and sophisticated thermal management systems, all engineered to meet stringent aerospace standards for reliability and efficiency.
Innovative Propulsion and Blown-Lift Technology
The EPUs supplied by Evolito will power the EL9’s eight distributed propellers, which are central to the aircraft’s patented blown-lift technology. This system enhances lift by directing airflow over the wings and large flaps, enabling the EL9 to achieve ultra-high lift at low speeds. As a result, the aircraft can take off and land within just 150 feet (45 meters), approximately one-tenth the distance required by conventional aircraft. This breakthrough not only reduces noise and emissions significantly but also expands access to air service by allowing operations from smaller, less developed locations, thereby connecting underserved communities more effectively.
Marc Allen, CEO of Electra, emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating, “Our production contract with Evolito is a significant step forward for our vision for Direct Aviation—safe, quiet, and affordable air mobility that connects communities in ways never before possible.” He highlighted Evolito’s lightweight, durable, and cost-effective design as a key factor in delivering long-term value through low maintenance requirements, extended lifespan, and proven reliability.
Dr. Chris Harris, CEO and Co-founder of Evolito, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, noting, “We are thrilled to partner with Electra on the EL9, a game-changing aircraft that aligns perfectly with our mission to accelerate the transition to sustainable aviation.” He added that Evolito’s engine technology is designed for type-certification and scalable production, making it well-suited to support Electra’s vision for clean, accessible, and efficient regional air travel.
Development Timeline and Market Prospects
Electra’s EL9 Ultra Short, a nine-passenger aircraft, has already demonstrated exceptional aerodynamic performance, achieving lift coefficients exceeding 20 in wind tunnel tests—seven times greater than typical unblown wings. The company plans to commence test flights in 2027, with certification and entry into commercial service anticipated by late 2029 or early 2030 under FAA Part 23 regulations. The EL9 has garnered significant market interest, with over 2,200 pre-orders from more than 60 commercial customers worldwide, including airlines and helicopter operators, positioning it as one of the most sought-after aircraft in the advanced air mobility (AAM) sector.
Despite these promising developments, Electra faces challenges related to the operational demands of electric aviation, particularly the need for ongoing advancements in battery technology to fully unlock the EL9’s capabilities. Industry analysts suggest that Electra’s progress may stimulate greater interest in hybrid-electric aircraft as a sustainable alternative, potentially accelerating development efforts among competitors in this rapidly evolving market.
Evolito’s Role in Sustainable Aviation
Based in Oxford, Evolito specializes in lightweight axial-flux motors and integrated propulsion systems designed for certification and scalable production. Its technology supports both vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) and fixed-wing aircraft, delivering high power and torque densities alongside efficiency and safety. The company is backed by investors including B-Flexion, Oxford Science Enterprises, and HostPlus.
As Electra and Evolito advance toward the EL9’s inaugural flight, their partnership is set to play a significant role in shaping the future of regional air mobility and advancing the broader transition toward sustainable aviation.

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