U.S. Air Force Takes Delivery of First Autonomous Electric Cargo Plane
February 14th, 2024Via: Electrek:
Pyka, a Silicon Valley startup, delivered its first electric autonomous cargo plane to AFWERX, the US Air Force’s network of innovators.
…
Pyka’s CEO believes DAF is “an ideal customer” for the long-range electric aircraft. Powered by four electric motors (100 kW combined) and a 50 kWh lithium-ion battery, the Pelican Cargo has up to 200 miles range (with a 20 min reserve).
The aircraft also has up to 400 lb payload capacity. With a sliding cargo tray, loading can be done in as little as five minutes. The electric plane can even fly at night with added GPS and Laser/Radar-based navigation.
This was the first Pelican electric cargo plane of three that will be leased to AFWERX. It will be used to study defense logistics uses for the US Air Force.
