EP Systems’ battery to power Plana VTOL

Electric Power Systems has entered signed a letter of intent (LoI) with South Korean hybrid VTOL developer Plana. 

EPS’s battery system will be integrated into its commercial hybrid eVTOL which is targeted for market entry in 2028. Plana plans to finish the pure battery-based eVTOL subscale test this year and introduce a 700kg weight half-scale model next year. 

Founded in July 2021, Plana is the only hybrid eVTOL startup in Korea. The aircraft it is developing will carry four to six passengers with one pilot, at a cruising speed of 300 km/h (maximum 350 km/h) with flight range of more than 500km.

Plana also plans to open an office in the US for closer communication with the FAA once the certification process has begun. It also hopes t participate in the Korean Grand Challenge UAM demonstration project organised by the Korean government.

Braden J. Kim, CEO, Plana said: “It is quite a meaningful moment for Plana to sign this Letter of Intent with EPS, which has established a reputation in the electric aviation industry for its expertise and reliable systems.”

EPS has added Plana to a list of customers including NASA, the FAA, Boeing, Safran, and Supernal. The firm also provides its electric powertrain system to X-57, Boeing’s Cargo Air Vehicle and Bell Helicopter’s hybrid AAM aircraft, Bell Nexus.

“Plana has been named one of the top eVTOL development programmes to watch,” said Nathan Millecam, CEO of EPS. “We are thrilled that the Plana team has put their trust in us and are excited for this exciting collaboration.”