Wright Electric, the LA-based electric plane startup, has begun developing the propulsion system for the Wright 1, an electric 186-passenger commercial aircraft. The propulsion system will reportedly utilize 10-14 electric motors.
The company intends to conduct ground tests of its motor in 2021 and flight tests in 2023. The motor development program is the next step towards building its narrow body class aircraft and will be simultaneously conducting aerodynamic tests on its fuselage.
A final battery chemistry is yet to be arrived at but they are exploring lithium-metal and lithium-sulfur and will weigh roughly the same as the weight of aviation fuel at full capacity. They are aiming for a 1,000 mile range.
The batteries will be ‘quick-swapped’ at the airport terminal. Swapping will take 20 minutes. They have partnered with easyJet to make the Wright 1.
The company expects entry of service of its flagship Wright 1 in 2027-2030.
Reference- Wright Electric website &PR, Futurism, BBC