VoltAero has launched its final assembly facility and headquarters at Rochefort Airport in France, a significant milestone in the certification and production of the Cassio electric-hybrid aircraft family.
The newly established 2,400m2 site at Saint Agnant will serve as the central hub for assembling and delivering Cassio-family aircraft, complemented by VoltAero’s on-site design, engineering, flight test, and administrative departments.
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This facility is designed to assemble up to 150 Cassio planes annually when operating at full capacity. Plans are in place to establish additional production sites across other key markets to support this output.
VoltAero CEO and chief technology officer Jean Botti said: “We are addressing the highly important market requirement to connect thousands of communities and regions around the world with truly sustainable and efficient advanced regional air mobility – while remaining fully compatible with the airport and air traffic control infrastructure.
“Additionally, our patented electric-hybrid propulsion system for Cassio provides the dual-source power to fly safely and is based on electric battery technology that is available today.”
The new building adheres to France’s RT 2005 energy efficiency standards and incorporates environmentally friendly features such as a concrete/wood structure, wooden floors, skylights, rainwater harvesting, and solar panels.
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By GlobalDataOffering direct access to Rochefort Airport’s runway and nearby transportation links, the facility’s master plan allows for future expansion and offers opportunities for suppliers and service providers to establish their operations nearby.
Nouvelle-Aquitaine regional President Alain Rousset said: “VoltAero’s presence here underscores the capability of Nouvelle-Aquitaine to offer resources for the development of skills and solutions for tomorrow; as well as attracting, guiding and training talent to meet recruitment challenges for the new professions in sustainability.”
The Cassio electric-hybrid aircraft family includes three models seating five to 12 passengers, catering to a wide range of customers from commercial operators to private owners, and utility services such as cargo delivery and Medevac.
The production will commence with the Cassio 330 model, featuring a four/five-seat configuration and a 330kW electric-hybrid propulsion system.
It will be followed by the six-seat Cassio 480 and the 10/12-seat Cassio 600, each with increased propulsion power of 480kW and 600kW respectively.
VoltAero’s unique propulsion approach utilises Safran ENGINeUS electric motors for all-electric power on short flights, with an internal combustion engine from Kawasaki Motors acting as a range extender and backup system.
By integrating this patented electric-hybrid propulsion into a purpose-designed airframe, VoltAero aims to deliver better performance and reduce operational costs compared to existing competitors in the market.
