The ES-30, Heart Aerospace's well-funded 30 seat plane has a projected battery range of 200 km (124 miles) per 30-minute charge, or 400 km (249 miles) with the generators helping out while cruising at altitude. With a lighter load of 25 passengers (and their luggage), the latter range figure climbs to 800 km (497 miles).
The aircraft features a "reserve-hybrid" configuration. Essentially, this means that for extending range on longer flights, the aircraft's four electric propeller motors can be powered by two aviation-fuel-burning turbo generators. For shorter flights, though, only the batteries (housed in the bulge underneath the plane) are used.
As is the case with other electric airliners, the ES-30 is promised to produce fewer carbon emissions than traditional combustion-engine planes, while also reducing operating costs and maintenance requirements. Furthermore, it will be much quieter than its fuel-guzzling counterparts, plus because its electric motors quickly deliver maximum torque, it will be able to take off from short runways - giving it access to many more landing options than conventional aircraft.
The ES-30 by Heart Aerospace is not a 'pie in the sky' concept as it has powerful backers that include United Airlines, Air Canada, Saab, the European Investment Council, and already has firm orders for 250 of the aircraft. So, it's definitely happening. And 2028 is the target date for commercial lift off.