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Draft:Smartflyer AG

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  • Comment: Two citations of a single source, and a routine business reporting one at that, contributes nothing towards notability per WP:NCORP. We need to see significant coverage in multiple secondary sources that are reliable and entirely independent of the subject.
    And what makes this inherently promotional is that rather than summarising such sources' coverage, as Wikipedia articles should, this is written purely from the company's point of view, and consists of whatever the company wants to tell the world about itself and its products. This is the definition of promotion (see WP:YESPROMO). DoubleGrazing (talk) 16:10, 10 December 2024 (UTC)


 
Smartflyer AG
Company typePrivate
IndustryAerospace
Founded2016 (2016)
FounderRolf Stuber
HeadquartersIndustriestrasse 10,
Selzach
,
Switzerland
Key people
Rolf Stuber, CEO
ProductsSmartflyer SF1
Websitesmartflyer.ch

Smartflyer AG is a Swiss aerospace company founded in 2016 and headquartered in Selzach, Switzerland. The company focuses on designing and developing hybrid-electric aircraft, which incorporates a propeller mounted on the vertical stabilizer.

History

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Smartflyer AG was established with the aim of developing aircraft designed specifically for hybrid-electric propulsion systems. Initial development of the SF1 prototype began shortly after the company was founded. Public unveiling of the aircraft occurred at Grenchen Airport in November 2024, and the company has announced plans for a maiden flight in mid-2025.

In 2023, Smartflyer AG faced financial challenges following the discontinuation of government subsidies for electric aviation projects. The company subsequently obtained private funding, including investment from Swiss firm Invero.[1] The company faced financial difficulties in 2023 following the discontinuation of Swiss government subsidies tied to aviation fuel taxes. Despite these setbacks, Smartflyer AG secured private funding from investors, including the Swiss firm Invero.[2]

Design

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The SFX1 prototype showcased after rollout at Grenchen Airport, Switzerland

The Smartflyer SF1 is designed as a single-engine aircraft with a propeller mounted on the vertical stabilizer. Smartflyer claims that this configuration improves aerodynamic efficiency and allows for additional space in the aircraft's nose section. The design incorporates modular energy storage, enabling the use of either batteries, a range extender, or a fuel cell.

Powerplant

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The main powertrain consists of high voltage batteries in the wings, two inverters and one electric motor with two independent electrical windings inside.

The four high voltage batteries are in the wings with a capacity of 32 kWh and a nominal voltage of 635 V.

Energy modules

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In the nose section, either additional batteries or a range extender can be placed. Smartflyer claims that it would be possible for any pilot to switch between range extender and additional batteries in 15 minutes, though this has never been demonstrated.

Specifications

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  • Take off Power (max 2 min): 160 kW
  • Maximum Continuous Power: 120 kW
  • Cruise Speed: 120 knots (222 km/h)
  • Service Ceiling: 15,000 ft (4,572 m)
  • Empty Weight: 1,000 kg
  • Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 1,400 kg
  • Range:
    • Hybrid: 800 km
    • Electric: 400 km

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

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Smartflyer AG has described the SF1 as a low-emission aircraft designed for electric and hybrid operation. The aircraft’s electric mode is intended to achieve zero emissions, while hybrid mode is expected to reduce emissions compared to conventional designs. The use of a large, slow-rotating propeller is expected to reduce noise levels.

Challenges and Future Plans

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Smartflyer AG has faced challenges in securing long-term funding and adapting to changes in its supply chain. The company plans to perform the maiden-flight of SF1 in June 2025 and aims to seek partnerships for further development and certification.

See also

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Electric aviation

Private aviation

References

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Official website