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Sonex founder John Monnett explains the technology employed in the Waiex's electric-based propulsion system during its
debut on Aeroshell Square at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2007. Photo by
Dave Higdon |
One thing front and center at EAA
AirVenture Oshkosh is innovation. Nowhere was that more evident that at
9:30 this morning when Sonex Aircraft introduced its proof-of-concept
electric motor in a Waiex airframe. In making the announcement, Sonex
President John Monnett said, "E-flight is a push to explore viable
alternative energies for powering sport aircraft and improve the
efficiency and performance of current products and technologies to keep
aviation affordable and recreational aviation available to future
generations of pilots." John continued, "We're building for the
future when being environmentally conscious and energy efficient will
become even more important."
The E-flight project is 3 fold, with the
electric motor being the most revolutionary initiative. However, Sonex is
also investigating converting the AeroVee 2.0 power plant for use of
ethanol-based fuels to increase its performance and efficiency.
As the third part of the project, Sonex is
developing enhancements to the existing AeroVee 2.0 engine to further
increase fuel efficiency and performance. For more information, visit http://www.aeroconversions.com.
(By the way, if you're a doubting Thomas about electric powered aircraft
flying, head on down to the ultralight area to see Randall Fishman's
electric powered Prowler trike.)
Jeremy Monnett shows off the electric motor and mount employed
in a proof-of-concept
Waiex airframe to demonstrate the potential of compact electric power and
advanced-technology batteries. Photo by Dave Higdon
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