Ampaire has selected Electric Power Systems (EP Systems) under an exclusive agreement to supply the propulsion battery pack for its hybrid-electric upgrade of the Cessna Grand Caravan.

The nine passenger Eco Caravan has undergone ground power tests and will fly in the second half of the year. It is the first hybrid-electric aircraft to enter the certification process with the FAA. A supplemental type certification for the upgraded aircraft is expected in 2024.

The EPiC energy storage system from EP Systems contains advanced cell technology that offers an energy density of over 200Wh/kg (watt-hours per kg) at the battery pack level while providing over 2,000 fast-charge cycles before a replacement is required, given typical usage. The EPiC series of products consists of modular building blocks that allow customisation at the aircraft level.

Ampaire already has operational experience with EP Systems technology, flying a prototype of the EPiC system on its Electric EEL flying testbed aircraft. The EEL is a hybrid electric Cessna Skymaster supporting the Department of Energy's ARPA-e advanced technology unit.

In July Ampaire revealed the RED Aircraft AO3 series compression ignition engine as the combustion portion of an integrated parallel hybrid-electric propulsion system.

“We are working closely with fellow innovators to bring a new level of efficiency and low emissions to aviation,” says founder and CEO Kevin Noertker. “EP Systems has distinguished itself in tailoring its battery technology to our needs with a near-term certifiable solution.”

EP Systems will support Ampaire in its work to certify the Eco Caravan. The aircraft can reduce fuel and emissions as much as 70 per cent on shorter trips and 50 per cent on longer ones, while preserving payload capability and extending range. When flown on sustainable aviation fuel, emissions are near zero. Eco Caravan's operating cost is 25 to 40 per cent lower depending on the type of missions flown. The hybrid-electric aircraft charges in flight and does not require ground charging infrastructure, meaning it can use any airport that Caravans fly from today.

“Ampaire's practical approach to electrification is the start of a transportation revolution,” says EP Systems founder and CEO Nathan Millecam. “We share a vision of lowering costs for aircraft operators and their passengers, while moving as quickly as possible to zero emissions aviation.”