Switzerland-based electric aviation company H55 and Aerovolt UK are to partner on building aircraft charging infrastructure and pilot training.
Aerovolt UK, which is developing charging infrastructure for electric aircraft around the world, will also buy two Bristell Energic aircraft powered by H55’s certified electric propulsion system as part of the agreement.
Aerovolt will use the Bristell Energics to promote the feasibility of all-electric pilot training from its sites in the UK at Dunkeswell Aerodrome and Goodwood Aerodrome.
Czech company BRM Aero’s Energic two-seat trainer aircraft is a version of its B23, which is certified under CS-23. The electric Energic was developed with the help of H55 and has been offered for sale since last May, with EASA full certification and deliveries expected during “early 2025”.
The Energic has a maximum take-off weight of 850kg (1,875 lbs), similar to the conventionally powered B23, offers 60 minutes of flight time plus reserves, and takes around an hour charge time
The partnership between the two companies aims to introduce the first-ever fully electric Private Pilot License training programs and further expand aircraft charging networks. According to Aerovolt it has more than 250 sites under development worldwide, including in the USA, Europe, and Australia.
The two companies will also integrate their charging operations software, using Aerovolt’s aviation management system, Squadron. H55 and Aerovolt both use the most common charging technology, CCS (combined charging system).
H55 develops electric propulsion and battery management systems and is a spin-off from the Solar Impulse project, which built the first electric airplane to fly around the world.
Martin Larose, CEO of H55 said, “The future of aviation is electric, and this partnership ensures we are not just preparing for that future but actively building it.
“Electric aviation is no longer a concept, it’s a reality. By joining forces with Aerovolt, we’re tackling two of the biggest challenges — scalable charging infrastructure and accessible pilot training. Together, we’re laying the foundation for a greener and more sustainable aviation industry, not only in Europe but globally.”
Philip Kingsley-Dobson, managing director of Aerovolt UK said, “This partnership is about more than infrastructure – it’s about transforming the way the world thinks about sustainable aviation, from training pilots to empowering airports and aviation authorities.
“H55’s expertise in electric propulsion complements our charging solutions perfectly, and together, we are creating a roadmap for the next generation of aviation.”
H55 will also take part in Aerovolt’s campaign to raise awareness of electric aviation and charging networks in the USA. Called the “Across America” initiative it aims to show the feasibility of coast-to-coast electric aviation.
H55 and Aerovolt added that they will share data and insights and foster collaboration with airports, flight schools, civil aviation authorities, and local governments as part of a shared aim to promote electric aircraft.
