Evolito Submits Electric Engine Type Cert Application

British electric propulsion startup Evolito has submitted its first type certificate application, with its E800 product initially intended to power Electra Aero’s nine-passenger EL9 Ultra Short aircraft. When certified, the first configuration of the electric engine—designated the E800-A1—will work alongside Safran’s 600-kw generator in the EL9. The aircraft will use eight electric propulsion units to drive propellers along each wing’s leading edge, allowing the aircraft to take off or land in as little as 45 meters.

According to Evolito, the initiation of its proposed certification basis is evidence of the maturity of its “products, processes, and organization.” The regulatory approval process now underway with the UK Civil Aviation Authority builds upon Evolito’s existing design organization approval, awarded in December 2023. At the time, Evolito became the first UK company to receive this permission.

Electra is targeting FAA Part 23 certification of its hybrid-electric EL9 by the end of 2029, having recently received its G-1 issue paper from the U.S. regulator. This documentation, formally establishing the certification basis for the aircraft, was issued seven months after application. Although the E800 engine will follow an SC-E19 (special condition for electric and hybrid propulsion systems) framework recognized by the CAA and EASA, Evolito is expecting concurrent FAA validation.