The Norway-based Elfly Group is building an electric amphibious aircraft, inspired by the venerable de Havilland Twin Otter and Grumman’s Mallard. The Noemi seaplane is designed for 200-kilometer air journeys, and will be powered by two electric motors with up to 1 MW combined output. A prototype is expected to make its first flight in 2025.

Elfly has selected Electric Power Systems (EPS) as the battery provider for the electric seaplane. EPS will deliver its EPiC battery line for the initial demonstration.

Electric Power Systems has numerous battery systems currently powering demonstrator aircraft, including the NASA X-57, Bell Nexus, Aurora Pegasus, Embraer Ipanema and Boeing Cargo Air Vehicle. EPS has also partnered with the FAA to certify batteries for general aviation aircraft, and will complete its first Technical Standard Order this year.

“We are confident that our advanced battery technology will contribute significantly to the success of the project,” said Nathan Millecam, CEO of Electric Power Systems.

“EPS’s highly relevant experience supporting battery technology on complementary, innovative programs positions them well for our next-generation seaplane, which we intend to build and fly under our own Air Operator’s Certificate in Norway,” said Elfly CEO and founder Eric Lithun.

Source: Electric Power Systems