In the exhilarating intersection of aviation and innovation, Electric Aeroplane Racing has taken flight, redefining the boundaries of what’s possible in the realm of aerial sports. This “high-octane” sport combines the thrill of aerial speed with the sustainable power of electric propulsion, promising a greener and faster future for air racing enthusiasts. The most popular tournament for electric aeroplane racing is Air Race E, based out of Dubai.
What is Electric Aeroplane Racing?
Electric Aeroplane Racing is a competitive Machina Sport that pits electric-powered aircraft against each other in a thrilling race through the skies. These cutting-edge aircraft, propelled by electric motors, showcase the potential of clean energy in the world of aviation. Pilots navigate challenging racecourses, pushing the limits of speed and maneuverability in an electrifying spectacle. Pushing speeds of up to 400 kph just 15 meters above the ground, it’s no wonder thrill-seekers engage in this event.
Brief History
The roots of Electric Aeroplane Racing can be traced back to the early 21st century when advancements in electric propulsion technology began making their mark in the aviation industry. As concerns about environmental sustainability grew, the idea of electric-powered air racing gained traction. By converting a Cassutt III aircraft to electric propulsion, the first Air Race E place would be built by the University of Nottingham. This university would spend over £13m on the “Beacons of Excellence” program which aims at building smart products, feeding the growing world population, further developing propulsion to make it more sustainable, and many more. On the 28th January 2022, the first flight of a piloted electric race plane was achieved by the Nordic Air Racing Team.
Nordic Air Racing Team
In 2020, Electric Aircraft Propulsion AS was founded to create the Nordic Air Racing Team, the first Scandanavian electric air racing team. The team had many founding partners including Equator Aircraft AS, Inet AS and Sola Aircraft Center AS and their main goal was to develop an all electric powertrain used in Air Racing. Of these partners, Equator Aircraft had already been involved with developing electric drivetrains. Of the team members, the team leader is Øystein Solheim-Aune. Oystein has years of expertise building, maintaining, and rebuilding experimental aircraft. He is also a private pilot and project engineer for electronics and automation. In addition, he has served on the Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 573 Norway’s board for a long time.
Hardware
Electric Aeroplanes
These aircraft are specifically designed for speed and agility. They are equipped with high-performance electric motors, cutting-edge battery technology, and aerodynamic features to maximize efficiency and reduce drag.
Safety Gear
With top speeds of 400 kph, not only does the craft have to be safe, but the gear needs to be protective. Pilots wear specialized safety gear, including helmets, flight suits, and parachutes, ensuring their protection in case of emergencies.
The Course
Electric Aeroplane Racing takes place on custom-designed racecourses that challenge pilots with a combination of straightaways, tight turns, and altitude changes. These courses are strategically designed to test the pilots’ skills and the capabilities of their electric aircraft. Often the shape of Nascar courses, these races are mostly 5km long, held all around the world.
How can I get involved?
For those aspiring to take flight in Electric Aeroplane Racing, the journey begins with a passion for aviation and a commitment to embracing sustainable technology. Prospective pilots typically undergo rigorous training, acquiring the necessary flight hours and mastering the nuances of electric aircraft operation. Joining local flying clubs, attending aviation schools, and connecting with the Electric Aeroplane Racing community are essential steps toward entering this thrilling sport. Since the sport is very competitive, pilots need to be very experienced as the stakes are high.
The Future
Electric Aeroplane Racing represents a paradigm shift in the aviation landscape, marrying speed and sustainability in a spectacle that captures the imagination. As the sport continues to gain momentum, it serves as a testament to the boundless possibilities of electric aviation, offering a thrilling glimpse into the future of air racing. The progression of the sport would seek to provide greater funding. Many large organizations have already started turning to electric aviation, such as Rolls Royce, Airbus and Siemens. This funding and greater recognition leads to greater advancements such as more availability to everyday people, increasing speeds and maneuverability, more obstacles and greater competition, and the ability to attract a greater audience, not just those fascinated with aviation. The enhancement of electrical propulsion is already in the works, not only for the benefit of the sport itself. Lithium, liquid hydrogen, and other sources of fuel are being used and explored.
