Electrification of the Icon A5

In this video we explore if we can electrify the Icon A5 or not? And if so, what is the performance that we can expect?
Icon A5 is a stunning aircraft. It is well designed aerodynamically and with its large wingspan and high glide ratio, it lends itself well for electric propulsion.
However it requires more power to be pushed through the air compared to Pipistrel Alpha Electro and Airbus E Fan.
We work out the numbers to see what will be the performance of the Icon A5 if it is electrified.

[@WildJohan]

This channel is the most rewarding I am watching right now. Interesting topics, good and well explained analyses and all efficiently packed in short videos. Thanks!

[@ElectricAviation]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@AmanSingh-jp3lo]

you are good at it

[@xpeterson]

The Equator P2 Excursion is a great candidate for this channel IMO. It’s got a great design, making use of the compact nature of the electric motor to keep more of the prop in undisturbed airflow, allowing for a streamlined lifting body design, and it allows for a bunch of random benefits like increase cargo space and front egress. It’s currently planned as a hybrid, which is great for the transition period until batteries advance further. As a seaplane pilot, I get excited just by the mere thought of being able to stop or reverse thrust on the prop :)

[@ElectricAviation]

Thank you for the suggestion

[@xpeterson]

@@ElectricAviation best of luck growing your channel. It’s an exciting field

[@datruth9872]

I would think it to be a good candidate with the proper power plant.

[@ianhawkes2901]

My g

[@HASF11111]

Very good analysis. But would you please add links for your solar energy videos and explanation of tech terms like charge cycles, energy density etc. I think It will be better for elaborating more to novice learners.

[@ElectricAviation]

Great suggestion!

[@kmaclean77]

What about electrification of the SeaRey Amphib? I’ve been thinking about that airframe for a while.

[@sim.frischh9781]

Given that this is a plane with it´s key feature being able to land and start from water, i would recommend against electrification if the plane is used in ocean waters. The saltiness of oceans are especially damaging to electric systems, thus making the Icon electric might limit it to sweet water use.

[@stevenbathurst7027]

The icon is a beautiful aircraft, I hope it will be cheaper because it is electric. Make it reasonable for a few more people to buy this beauty

[@HB-ud3ne]

With today's battery technology, which will also exist in the near future, the only reasonable solution for all electrified aircraft is for going hybrid. This means a "range extender" driving an electric generator that charges the battery system. In this case, we have to compare the weight of the rotax engine, with the weight of the range extender, the generator module, and the electric engine, combined. The result would probably be a similar weight system, with similar engine noise, that probably doesn't worth the fuss, moreover, since the position of the propeller doesn't need to be far from the new electric engine system. We would need to significantly alter the current design of the Icon A5, ending up with a completely different aircraft, in order to experience significant benefits out of the electrification of an aircraft of this size, by adding redundancy needed for flying over ocean for extended time, with the addition of a second redundant "range extender", and by possibly giving also vtol capabilities with distributed light electric engines on the wings and tail...

[@praveerrajput5090]

Can you please tell more about solar cell and from where to buy?

[@ElectricAviation]

There is a detailed video on Synergy Files Channel called Most Value for Money solar panels.

[@chrispollard6568]

Maxeon from China - Aliexpress and Ebay

[@alwynwatson6119]

You could keep it in the air for longer if you used a fuel cell range extender.

[@ElectricAviation]

True

[@glikar1]

Interest analysis! A much more serious problem is that high-mounted pusher props on floatplanes are not a great idea in the first place. Unless you're adding considerably more power at a reduced weight, it is a no-go.

[@muskreality]

The solution to this problem is 1. Carbon Fiber Fuselage Construction 2. Lightweight cockpit material 3. Lighter Electric Motor

[@jb5music]

Let me guess... 17 minutes of l-ion instead if 90 minutes of hydrogen fuel cell...

[@JohnDoe-zz3hj]

EV - Heavier, not proven. Drone pilot. I'll go with gas any day.