By Skies Magazine | July 27, 2023 Estimated reading time 5 minutes, 35 seconds.
Electric Power Systems (EP Systems) has been selected as the battery provider for Elfly’s much-anticipated all-electric seaplane. The research demonstrator partnership was officially announced on July 25 during this year’s EAA AirVenture Oshkosh fly-in, with the collaboration set to drive advancements in electric aviation through the development of a “modern-day amphibious aircraft.”
The Elfly Group, founded in Bergen, Norway, in 2018, is dedicated to bringing worldwide access to “environmentally friendly aviation.” The company’s flagship program involves the development of an amphibious aircraft called “Noemi” (no emissions), featuring batteries and two electric engines.
Inspired by the de Havilland Twin Otter and Grumman Mallard, Noemi is designed for 200-kilometer flights. The aircraft will have an unpressurized cabin and will be powered by two electric motors with a combined output of up to 1 megawatt.
EP Systems is to supply its EPiC battery line for the initial demonstrator, which will “incorporate upgradable energy solutions,” Elfly said in a press release.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Elfly on its pioneering research project,” said Nathan Millecam, CEO of EP Systems. “We are confident that our advanced battery technology will contribute significantly to the success of the project, and we are excited to have been selected.”
The alliance is built on a shared commitment to combine “safety, performance, and sustainability,” as well as the ambition to accelerate “the adoption of electric aviation and revolutionize the future of travel.”
Initially, Noemi will be offered with nine seats in a business/executive cabin configuration (plus luggage), “complemented by a VIP layout with six seats.” In addition, “a tourist pleasure flight model” with 13 seats (minus baggage), a cargo version, and a medevac version are planned.
The company is actively pursuing certification for its EG1A test vehicle to CS23 Level 4, a milestone that “will enable the aircraft to evolve into a 19-seat seaplane.”
Elfly’s CEO and founder, Eric Lithun, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration with EP Systems, stating: “We are delighted to welcome EP Systems as an early and important supplier for our first demonstrator. Their team’s highly relevant experience supporting battery technology on complementary, innovative programs positions them well for our next-generation seaplane.”
EP Systems provides “high-power, scalable powertrains that are certifiable for electrified aviation.” The company also develops energy storage systems, DC fast-charging stations, and electric propulsion products for aerospace applications.
Elfly will join an impressive list of industry partners working with EP Systems, including Boeing, Diamond Aircraft, Plana, REGENT, Safran, Supernal, Ampaire, Aura Aero, and VoltAero. Specifically, EP Systems is known for providing its electric powertrain system to Ampaire’s Eco Caravan, Boeing’s Cargo Air Vehicle, and Bell’s Nexus advanced air mobility aircraft.
Elfly said, initially, it intends to build and fly Noemi under its own Air Operator’s Certificate in Norway, with plans to expand to other locations.
“We will operate from city center to city center; small and flexible sea terminals will facilitate the boarding and unboarding of our passengers,” the company said. “Without the need to build complex infrastructure to open a new route, our network can grow in endless different ways.”
Elfly says the Noemi prototype is set to take flight in 2025. Ultimately, the company hopes to have 15 to 20 Noemi aircraft ready for passenger service by 2030.
