Electra.aero, a pioneer in sustainable regional air mobility, has chosen Evolito, a leading innovator in electric propulsion systems for aerospace, to supply the electric propulsion units (EPUs) for Electra’s groundbreaking EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft, capable of taking off and landing in just 150 feet (45 meters).
Under this agreement, Evolito will deliver high-performance EPUs that integrate lightweight electric motors, high-integrity motor controllers, and advanced thermal management systems. Designed for aerospace-grade reliability and efficiency, these EPUs will power the EL9’s eight distributed propellers positioned along the leading edge of its wing. This distributed electric propulsion architecture is central to the EL9’s ultra-high lift performance, allowing precise control, low airspeeds, and exceptional short-field capabilities.
“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 Marc Allen, CEO of Electra. “Evolito’s lightweight, durable, and cost-effective design will provide exceptional long-term value for operators through low maintenance, long life, and proven reliability.”
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“We are thrilled to partner with Electra on the EL9, a game-changing aircraft that aligns perfectly with our mission to accelerate the transition to sustainable aviation,” said Dr. Chris Harris, CEO and Co-founder of Evolito. “Our engine technology is designed for type-certification and scalable production, making it ideally suited to support Electra’s vision for clean, accessible, and efficient regional air travel.”
“Evolito’s EPUs deliver exceptional performance and reliability on a technology chassis with a proven heritage,” noted JP Stewart, Electra’s Senior Vice President, Product Development.
Redefining Regional Air Mobility
Electra’s EL9 Ultra Short aircraft is designed to revolutionize short-distance travel by combining patented blown-lift technology with distributed electric propulsion. This unique configuration allows the aircraft to take off and land in areas one-tenth the size required by conventional aircraft-dramatically reducing noise and emissions while unlocking thousands of new regional access points for air service.
By using electric engines to blow air over the wings and large flaps, the EL9 achieves lift coefficients exceeding 20, more than seven times higher than typical unblown wing designs. These advancements have been validated through powered wind tunnel testing, confirming the EL9’s unmatched lift efficiency and operational flexibility.