Pipistrel Velis Electro

First flight of the electric prototype took place on 22 August 2014
EASA type certification was granted on 10 June 2020, making it the world’s first fully electric aircraft to do so under the CS-LSA framework
The first production unit rolled out 16 July 2020 to a Swiss operator, launching commercial deliveries

World‑First Type‑Certified Electric Trainer
- Built on the proven Virus airframe (designated Virus SW‑128), it uses the Pipistrel E‑811 liquid‑cooled electric motor and dual battery system
Power & Propulsion
- The E‑811 motor delivers 57.6 kW (≈77 hp) for take‑off and ~49 kW for continuous cruise
- Twin liquid‑cooled lithium battery packs (~11–12 kWh each), mounted front and rear, deliver up to ~50 min endurance plus VFR reserves; recharges in 1–2 hours.
Quiet & Clean Performance
- Emits zero CO₂ in flight and operates at around 60 dBa, comparable to a normal conversation—ideal for operations near urban areas and optimizing flight training flexibility
Pilot‑Friendly & Low Op‑Costs
- Simpler controls, minimal engine complexity, and electric power make it easy to operate.
- Operating costs are low—around £5/hour compared to ~£100/hour for traditional trainers
Health‑Monitoring & Safety Engineering
- Features integrated health‑monitoring systems for battery “age” and state of charge.
- Built with fault‑tolerant, dual‑battery architecture and certified electric drivetrain
Backed by Real‑World Records & Recognition
- In late 2020, it set multiple efficiency and endurance records on Swiss flights (e.g., ~839 km in 56 h)
- Winner of multiple awards, including Plane & Pilot’s 2020 “Plane of the Year” and the 2021 AIAA Aircraft Design Award

Pipistrel Velis Electro Data