The Solar Impulse HB-SIA just got a little closer to realizing the possibility of being the first solar plane to navigate around the world. The 3,527lb (1,600kg) solar plane recently completed runway tests in Switzerland when it achieved 10 knots during initial runway taxiing tests.
“The runway tests are necessary and involve a certain amount of risk for the landing gear. The chances of damaging the plane are greatest during low-speed ground manoeuvres. The faster the plane goes the more lift it gets from its wings, meaning that there is less load on the wheels”, explained André Borschberg, co-founder and CEO of Solar Impulse.
The next stage in the project will involve taking the Solar Impulse prototype up to its 35kph (21.7mph) take-off speed and having it do its first few “flea hops”.
The plane features four electric motors powered by solar energy and has a mission to promote alternative flight technologies and prove solar energy is a viable option for long distance flight.
Watch videos of the testing below:
Visit: http://www.solarimpulse.com/
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