BPI France, the agency supporting France's economic growth, has granted VoltAero €5.6 million through the "France 2030" investment plan, aimed at transforming key sectors of the country's economy, including aeronautics.
The latest funding injection further underscores the support and confidence placed in VoltAero's vision of revolutionizing general aviation with the Cassio family of electric-hybrid airplanes. These aircraft offer safe, quiet, efficient, and environmentally friendly flight capabilities. Jean Botti, CEO and Chief Technical Officer of VoltAero, expressed gratitude for the grant, stating,
"This grant is another important milestone for VoltAero and our vision to develop the unique family of Cassio electric-hybrid general aviation airplanes. It contributes to the Cassio 330's development, certification, and production."
The Cassio 330, the initial model among three versions of VoltAero's electric-hybrid aircraft family, boasts a high degree of modularity and commonality. These aircraft feature a clean-sheet configuration with sleek, aerodynamically optimized designs.
The Cassio family aims to serve as a highly capable and reliable product line for various applications, including regional commercial operations, air taxi/charter services, private ownership, and utility-category roles such as cargo transportation, postal delivery, and medical evacuation (Medevac).
Key to the Cassio aircraft's performance is VoltAero's patented electric-hybrid propulsion system, offering superior performance and significantly lower operational costs compared to current competitors. The electric motors in the aft fuselage-mounted propulsion system provide all-electric power during taxi, takeoff, primary flight (for distances less than 150 km), and landing. The hybrid feature, utilizing an internal combustion engine, acts as a range extender, recharging the batteries during flight. It also serves as a reliable backup in case of electric propulsion issues. Furthermore, the Cassio aircraft can utilize multiple fuel options, enhancing versatility.
The first model to enter service will be the Cassio 330, featuring a five-seat configuration and a 330-kilowatt electric-hybrid propulsion system. This will be followed by the Cassio 480, a six-seat variant with a 480-kilowatt electric-hybrid propulsion power. Lastly, the Cassio 600 will offer a 12-seat capacity with a 600-kilowatt electric-hybrid propulsion system.
VoltAero's headquarters are located at the Aérodrome de Royan-Médis in southwest France. Final assembly of the Cassio aircraft will take place at a dedicated facility in Rochefort Charente-Maritime Airport, situated in France's Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, known for its strong aerospace heritage.
VoltAero's innovative approach to electric aviation, leveraging over 80 years of combined pioneering expertise, positions the company at the forefront of the industry. The Cassio family of aircraft represents a breakthrough in general aviation, enabling safe, quiet, efficient, and eco-friendly flight in both electric and electric-hybrid modes.
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