Electra’s hybrid-electric STOL (short takeoff and landing) aircraft has been a surprise sales breakthrough. When it hits the market, it’ll carry a pilot and 3,000 lb (1,361 kg) of cargo, or nine passengers with luggage, distances up to 1,100 nautical miles (1,265 miles, 2,037 km) at a cruise speed around 200 mph (322 km/h).
It’ll run eight electric props along the leading edge of the wings, as well as large flaps hanging from the trailing edges. This allows a “blown lift” aerodynamic effect powerful enough that it’ll lift off at a speed of just 35 mph (56 km/h).
