From left to right: in the cockpit: Test Pilot Norbert Lorenzen, Sascha Voitle (mechanic), Calin Gologan (developer of the Elektra One and CEO PC-Aero), Michael Mularski (SolarWorld) Photo:Shahn Sederberg
Erik Lindbergh, founder of LEAP, announced the winner of the Lindbergh Prize for Electric Aircraft at the World Electric Aircraft Symposium at EAA’s AirVenture in Oshkosh. PC-Aero is the winner for its integration of Solar World’s solar technology into its ELEKTRA ONE aircraft and the supporting hangar.
PC-Aero’s vision is for the energy from the rooftop solar cells to not only provide power to the aircraft but also the hanger itself and excess energy to feed back to the power grid.
Photo: Jean-Marie Urlacher-Info-Pilote
LEAP’s programmes recognize, inspire and incentivize the innovation that drives our culture, economy and future. The LEAP Electric Flight Programme is accelerating the development of the electric aircraft industry through a range of activities, from prizes to advocacy.
This year LEAP chose to focus on a different aspect of electric aircraft propulsion than past Lindbergh Prizes by awarding a Vision Award. The Award focuses on innovation with a “vision” for integrated electric power for an aircraft and its supporting infrastructure. Having a complete plan for energy management is the key to widespread adoption of electric propulsion.
Photo: Shahn Sederberg
LEAP is grateful to Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. for its continuing support of the LEAP Electric Flight Programme. The heritage of the collaboration between the Lindbergh and Sikorsky families continues to shape the future of flight.
“Aviation provides a terrific community to foster the great innovators of the future,” said Chris Van Buiten, Director, Sikorsky Innovations. “The LEAP organization shares our enthusiasm for exploring exciting and creative solutions that will transform our industry, and we applaud Erik’s efforts to raise awareness and educate today’s students who are our future engineers, designers and inventors.”
Source: Press Release