Electra Selects Evolito to Power EL9 Hybrid-Electric Aircraft

Electra.Aero has selected Evolito to provide electric propulsion units (EPUs) of its EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft. The U.S. start-up announced the partnership on October 13, saying that the equipment will be a key element in the distributed electric propulsion system for the blown-lift design.

The Evolito EPU combines lightweight electric motors with motor controllers and a thermal control system. Each of the nine-passenger EL9’s eight wing-mounted propellers will have its own aerospace-grade EPU.

The companies said the first flightworthy propulsion units will be supplied to Electra in 2027. Evolito has already shipped some "development content" from its factory at Bicester in the UK.

Virginia-based Electra, which has been flying a sub-scale EL2 demonstrator aircraft since late 2024 while it completes the design for the EL9. Electra is aiming to be ready to fly a full-scale EL9 prototype in 2027 as it works towards FAA Part 23 type certification and first deliveries in 2029.

In August, Electra said it had started talks with a select group of prospective customers with a view to taking initial deposits for the aircraft, which is expected to need just 150 feet to takeoff and land. It has reported over 2,200 “pre-orders” from more than 60 commercial customers worldwide.

“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,” said Electra’s CEO, Marc Allen. “Evolito’s lightweight, durable, and cost-effective design will provide exceptional long-term value for operators through low maintenance, long-life and proven reliability.”

Evolito earned its design organization approval from the UK Civil Aviation Authority in December 2023. At the time, it indicated that it hoped to achieve the first type certification for its 100- to 200-kilowatt range of EPUs in 2026.