The LCA60T airship, which is due to make its flight debut in 2027, measures 200 metres long and is designed to carry loads weighing up to 60 tonnes to regions with limited infrastructure.
By using Evolito’s motors, Flying Whales aims to create a more efficient and environmentally sustainable mode of transport which reduces greenhouse gas emissions and promotes greener logistics practices.
Each airship will be powered by 32 D250 motors, which provide a power density of 18.5kW/kg providing 240kW peak power and weighing 13kg.
In 2023, Evolito was awarded Design Organisation Approval by the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority and is working towards POA and ISO9001 this year, which will help reduce certification costs for Flying Whales.
Vincent Guibout, CEO of Flying Whales says Evolito has demonstrated its credentials from the power density providing by its axial flux electric motors to its ability to ramp up production to meet forecasted requirements.
He says, “There is an excellent synergy between our teams - we share the same passion for enabling electric flight through engineering excellence and innovation - and I look forward to working with Evolito towards the first LCA60T flight and beyond into production and commercial operation.”
Dr Chris Harris, CEO and co-founder of Evolito, says, “Evolito’s unique axial-flux technology enables a new class of lightweight, compact and high-performance electric motor, opening up many new aircraft designs, mission profiles and use-cases, setting new standards in electric propulsion for aerospace.”