The world’s first electric race plane has been unveiled at the Dubai Airshow.
Built by one of the racing teams set to take part in the inaugural Air Race E event next year, the E-Racer Model was launched in Dubai in association with the series’ official founding partner Airbus.
The E-Racer Model has been built by Team Condor in their Yorkshire-based workshop in the North of England using a highly-modified Cassutt aircraft with a rich history in formula air racing dating back to 1979.
The customised electric motor will enable the plane to race at speeds of around 300mph. During the races, the combined max continuous power will be set at 150kW, according to the electric formula.
Over 100kg worth of lithium batteries installed under the fuselage of the plane will provide power for five minutes of high intensity racing and around 10 minutes of reserve flying at reduced power.
Air Race E will be a series of head-to-head international air races, showcasing the skills, expertise and ingenuity of the best pilots and engineers from around the world.
Unlike similar racing events which operate on a time trial basis, Air Race E events will see eight planes fly simultaneously around a tight 5km circuit at just 10m above the ground and at speeds of up to 450kph – faster than any land-based motorsport.
