H55's Electric Aviation Breakthrough in the Mojave Desert
H55, a pioneering force in electric aviation and a proud descendant of the historic Solar Impulse initiative, recently made a significant mark by concluding the fourth leg of its "Across America" tour in Las Vegas, Nevada, from June 2 to 6. This journey has served to highlight the extraordinary capabilities of the B23 Energic, a state-of-the-art electric aircraft, in some of the most challenging flying conditions in the United States.
Proving Its Worth in the Mojave Heat
Taking to the skies over the Mojave Desert, known for its extreme heat and low-density altitude, the B23 Energic successfully showcased the reliability of H55's electric propulsion system (EPS). Unlike traditional combustion engines that can falter under such extreme conditions, the EPS maintained peak performance and power output, reassuring potential operators of its versatility and robustness.
At the core of the impressive capabilities of the B23 Energic is H55's advanced battery and energy management technology. Crafted to operate efficiently even in the harshest environments, this system ensures that the aircraft can sustain its power regardless of external temperature fluctuations or elevation changes. This capability sets the B23 Energic apart from standard piston-engine aircraft, which suffer significant performance drops in high-temperature or high-altitude scenarios.
A Testimony of Reliability from the Skies
The flight operations team, including Lead Flight Test Engineer Céline Bonnefous and Pilot Laurent Wulser, performed a series of rigorous demonstration flights involving U.S. Air Force test pilots, commercial aviators, flight instructors, and enthusiastic general aviation pilots. No performance degradation was noted, even under intense desert heat.
"The H55 electric engine proves consistent power output regardless of density altitude," said Bonnefous. "This marks a significant advantage for training institutions and regional landing spots, especially in demanding environments where traditional engines struggle."
Pilot Experience: Eye-Opening and Efficient
Instructors across the country are experiencing a future where electric aircraft augment training. Paniau Lindsey, Chief Flight Instructor at Vegas Aviation, remarked, "Flying the B23 Energic was surprisingly easy. I had doubts about flying a plane without gas, but once airborne, the aircraft performed exceptionally well. It’s incredibly quiet—so much so that we could talk without headsets during flight. It’s a clean, simple, and enjoyable training aircraft."
Next Destination: Silicon Valley
H55 has deep historical ties with California, having first landed in Silicon Valley with the Solar Impulse I in 2013, followed by Solar Impulse II in 2017. This upcoming stop in the heart of Silicon Valley is crucial for the company as it aims to engage with investors and aviation enthusiasts. The B23 Energic is not just a project; it represents years of development and testing, already showing commercial viability with a growing customer interest.
Scheduled events at San Carlos Airport from June 14 to 16 and at Palo Alto Airport from June 17 to 25 will facilitate engagement with the American public. Both venues will provide a unique opportunity for visitors to experience firsthand what fully electric and zero-emission flight entails and to understand H55's commitment to low-maintenance aircraft.
Additionally, the Hiller Aviation Museum has invited H55 to showcase its electric technology at their 'Biggest Little Air Show' event, allowing the public an up-close view of the future of aviation on June 14, 2025.
Building a Community Around Clean Aviation
In tandem with its outreach and flight demonstrations, H55 has initiated an Ambassador Program and launched a new website, inviting aviation professionals, industry leaders, and passionate individuals to join the movement for sustainable aviation. Interested parties can find more information and apply through
H55 Ambassadors.
About H55
Founded by the visionary team behind Solar Impulse, H55 specializes in creating certified electric propulsion systems engineered to elevate diverse aircraft applications, striving for environmentally sustainable air travel. With an emphasis on innovation and reliability, H55’s expert team seeks to redefine industry standards, paving the way for a cleaner aviation future. For further details, please visit
www.h55.ch or reach out via email at [email protected].
The future of electric aviation is distinctly bright, and H55 is determined to lead the way.