French Hybrid e-Plane Cassio to Participate in a Dutch Project for Regional Air Mobility

Startups and operators all over the world are exploring emission-free alternatives to urban and regional air transportation. Power Up brings together big names across multiple industries, from KLM Royal Dutch Airlines to the Dutch Railways. Numerous Dutch airports have also signed the memorandum, as well as expert institutions such as the Netherlands Aerospace Center.

One of the 18 partners in the project is VoltAero, a French aviation company known for developing the Cassio hybrid-electric concept. Cassio will be instrumental in advancing zero-emission air mobility on regional routes and is set to kick off test flights within the project soon.

Cassio is not just an aircraft concept but a family. VoltAero plans to integrate its propulsion technology into multiple versions, from air taxis and private planes to cargo and medical evacuation airplanes.

The first Cassio aircraft to hit the production line will be the Cassio 330, a four-to-five seater with 330 kW of power. The Cassio 480 will take it to 480 kW with a six-seat configuration. Finally, the Cassio 600 will be ready for regional commercial operations, boasting 600 kW of hybrid-electric power and a 10-to-12-seat capacity.

Each of these versions will be powered by VoltAero’s hybrid propulsion technology. The Cassio concept features both electric motors and an internal combustion engine integrated into the propulsion unit that’s mounted in the aft fuselage.

Electric power will primarily be used for takeoff, landing, and during taxi. However, on routes under 150 km (93 miles), the Cassio e-plane will be able to fly with no emissions, relying on its electric motor alone.

The hybrid configuration allows Cassio’s batteries to be recharged in flight, which effectively extends its range for longer trips. At the same time, this doubles as a safety feature. In case of motor failure, the engine can operate as a power backup.

Even in hybrid mode, this French airplane promises to cut emissions by 20%, which amounts to a lot, especially when it comes to regional flights. Plus, it claims to be significantly quieter compared to similar aircraft and completely silent during ground taxi (thanks to its electrically-driven nose wheel).

The ultimate Cassio 600, intended for regional travel, will be able to cover up to 1,200 km (745 miles) with lower emission levels and less noise pollution. Initiatives like Power Up are accelerating the transition from current options to eco-friendlier but equally powerful alternatives. This summer, the Cassio 330 also made its US debut at Oshkosh.