Electric airplane adds solar — and range

solar-elektraThe Elektra One, a really cool electric airplane that can now fly up to 600 miles on a single charge, has received a solar upgrade that makes it even cooler.

Solar cells have been added to the wings and tail to provide a trickle charge that will give the e-plane’s charge a renewable energy boost.

Designed by PC-Aero, the Elektra One is part of a zero emissions flight plan. The plan includes a solar-powered hangar that will store the aircraft. With 20 square meter of solar cells (215 sq. ft.) plane developers and pilots think the Elektra One could fly 300 hours a year based on the sunlight for southern Germany.

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The hope is to eventually sell the solar-cell outfitted e-airplane, hangar and power package for less than 100,000 Euros ($140,000).

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