Sikorsky Will Fly Electric Helicopter This Year

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http://www.wired.com/autopia/2010/07/sikorsky-will-fly-electric-helicopter-this-year/

fireflyheli1-thumb-550xauto-43725.jpg


http://dvice.com/archives/2010/07/sikorsky.php
Based on Sikorsky's long running S-300C trainer, the Firefly dumps the original's 190-hp four-cylinder gas engine for an electric motor and a bunch of lithium-ion batteries. Battery duration is only around 15 minutes — not too good, but at least it allows them to show that concept has merit. Sikorsky's head of research and engineering Mark Wilner says rising fuel costs are starting to threaten the role helicopters play in many fields, making research into alternate fuels essential.

Sikorsky will unveil Project FIrefly Tuesday at the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) AirVenture show in Oshkosh Wisconsin.

tks
llok
 
Very very cool! Giant RC helicopter. :)
 
Darn, I wanted to be the first to fly a full size electric heli. Aw well, maybe I can build the first full size 3d capable heli.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=np5XSTwv4vA
 
I'll drive an electric car. No way I'll fly an electric helicopter. Vibration and batteries are not a good combo.
 
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