AS 33 Me test flight video RAW Video

As the first media, NORDIC GLIDING had the chance to conduct a first flight in the new electric self-launching EASA-certified AS 33 ME. Here we see 2 consecutive launches without recharging from a full battery. After the second launch more than 60% battery state of charge was remaining, and a third launch had been fully possible.
Full test flight article (in swedish)
nordicgliding.com/test-as-33-...
Full test flight article (english auto translate)
nordicgliding-com.translate.g...

[@elkcircle7245]

I like the ergonomics of the engine control unit better than the JS3 RES: both the use of a more traditional lever compared to a rotary speed control knob in the JS3, and also the unit is placed low down and central in the AS33 whereas it is normally higher and off center to the left in the JS. The lever in particular is much faster and intuitive than turning a knob 720+ degrees. Unfortunately the heavy batteries with only 2 launches worth of power will limit their usefulness. Overall weight is also a challenge, although the RES handles the high minimum wing loading with ease.

[@kentwilliams3326]

Thanks much. It the fulfillment of a dream. I have a Private License SEL, but a motorized sail plane is even better.

[@TheSoaringChannel]

I think this could be my next glider. Then again, perhaps the 304MS. I just don't know yet. But it's just got to be a single seat self launch. I want a JS3 RES but... The batteries just aren't there yet. The 33Me sounds wonderful as well, but you will pay a steep penalty on the indexing like in the JS3. I'm not sure I'm sold on the heavy controls of the 33. My DG is heavy at speed and I don't like that feeling. I haven't watched your video yet ---- I am very eager to see and hear your thoughts. Just commenting because I'm excited to see this video.

[@soaruk3697]

I'd wait to see what the Diana 4ER brings to the table - potentially the cheapest, highest performing and lightest.......... depends on how easy the wing batteries will be to remove as well - that is the big drawback of the AS33ME for competitions, plus its high empty weight of 420kg plus. OK for a 'recreational' motorglider but nothing much else.

[@TheSoaringChannel]

@@soaruk3697 420kg is pretty heavy indeed. The batteries are fitted where the water bags would normally go, right?

[@soaruk3697]

@@TheSoaringChannel I think so but it has the ability to take water I think,u p to 600kg. The JS3s seem to be about 25kg lighter with 2 batteries. The Diana 4 target weight with batteries is 355kg -but am sceptical they will meet this weight - also the batteries are wing mounted -although I did read they were supposed to be easily removeable to be put in a car - we will see. To me the AS33Me seems to lack the adaptability of the JS3RES which can also be flown as a sustainer or pure glider - but it is still awaiting EASA certification and as you say the endurance with both batteries installed seems a little limited compared with the 33............

[@TheSoaringChannel]

@@soaruk3697 I agree. If you truly miss read the day ending, you get a slow section of a flight: all you're doing is flying to the landout anyways. This isn't very helpful, but is obviously better than nothing. If you're only flying 500km triangles.... I suppose it's possible to sawtooth your way home with the remaining battery power, or better yet, get towed and then sawtooth home with more range. The whole point, though, is that you are self sufficient. The 33 and JS3 really aren't quite there yet. 9000' of climb in the 33 is only 2x 4500' sawtooth climbs, or 3x 3000' sawtooth climbs. What is that, about 90km assuming you are at 1000'at the bottom of each? That's kinda sketchy, too if you think about it, and it doesn't work (start). Now you're low with it extended, all to try to get home. The jet of the JS3 is better due to the high cruise speed (run max continuous) and level and you're home before it runs out of fuel. Obviously that can't self launch. So there's that. It's all a give and take. I agree - I'll wait but I'm definitely ready to make the next move. I'd really prefer electric self launch of anything Solo ($6,000) or Austro ($35,000) powered. The electric WILL EVENTUALLY be more reliable with less vibration headaches. This video demonstrates that. Ugh. I can't wait!!!

[@naturarum]

Have you flown the Ventus 3? Would love to know if it's more nimble than the AS33. I like the Schempp-Hirth nimbleness and, from flying the ASG32, I know I couldn't stand that feeling of heavy controls in the 18m AS33, for flying in the alps. Best handling I've seen is in Ventus 2c and DuoDiscus.

[@Dzordzikk]

Hi, so around 3 m/s climb rate? What is total height gain with that propulsion?

[@jenstrabolt]

Yes, and around 2600-2700 meter total elevation gain - check out the article here nordicgliding-com.translate.goog/test-as-33-me-dreamglider/?_x_tr_sl=da&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=da

[@soaruk3697]

Empty at 500kg plus? or at 600 kg? Without giving weight etc., the above is fairly meaningless...........

[@yuvrajarora9359]

Bro what is the thrust of it

[@patatraa411]

?

[@yuvrajarora9359]

​@@patatraa411 Engine inside