VoltAero Begins Certification Tests for Hybrid-Electric Powertrain of Cassio 330 Aircraft

VoltAero has commenced certification testing for the parallel electric-hybrid powertrain destined to equip the five-seat Cassio 330 aircraft. Testing takes place using a ground-based test bench at AKIRA Technologies’ facility in Bayonne, France. The setup features key components like Safran Electrical & Power's ENGINeUS™ 100 electric motor and a high-performance Kawasaki thermal engine, originally developed from the Ninja® motorcycle series.

The Cassio 330 is expected to deliver a combined power output of 330 kilowatts from its hybrid system, with 180 kilowatts from the electric motor and 150 kilowatts from the thermal engine. This powertrain configuration allows the aircraft to engage in all-electric operations for phases such as taxiing, takeoff, primary flight under certain distances, and landing, while incorporating the hybrid engine as a range extender and fail-safe backup.

VoltAero's innovative design integrates a sleek fuselage, a forward-fixed canard, and dual aft-set wings, optimizing the airframe for improved aerodynamic and operational efficiency. The firm anticipates achieving certification for the Cassio 330 by late 2025, followed by larger models such as the six-seat Cassio 480 and the Cassio 600, capable of seating up to 12 passengers.