Whisper Aero and EPS to create certifiable Part 23 powertrains

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Whisper Aero and Electric Power Systems (EPS) have partnered, combining their respective technologies to create certifiable powertrains for Part 23 aircraft.

The joint Whisper and EPS team have begun work on a retrofit Part 23 concept that integrates Whisper’s 80 lbf eQ250 propulsors and JetFoil wings with EPS’ EPiC energy storage systems. The team has completed initial compatibility tests and has brought a Whisper propulsor coupled to a mobile EPS battery system to this year’s UP.Summit event. 

Whisper CEO, Mark Moore, said: “We’re excited to partner with EPS on powertrain solutions for hybrid-electric retrofits and clean sheet designs. Their progress on aerospace-grade, certifiable batteries makes them a pragmatic choice for near-term Part 23 aircraft.”

Over the coming months, the team will work on larger arrays of Whisper propulsors and EPS batteries that can be combined with a high voltage bus and a turbogenerator in a hybrid-electric demonstrator capable of flight. Ultimately, the goal is to fit the powertrains on retrofit and clean-sheet designs for regional air mobility.

“We are excited to partner with Whisper Aero in developing modular and scalable powertrains to electrify aerospace and defense,” said EPS CEO, Nathan Millecam. “Whisper Aero’s ducted fans are an ideal fit for the modular, scalable, and upgradeable power systems we deploy today. Together, we can further expand the range of electric vehicles without having to compromise on air speed or noise pollution.” 

The partnership also marks step forward for Whisper’s ReConnecTN coalition, an initiative launched to accelerate the deployment of regional air mobility in Tennessee late last year.

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