Pyka, a California-based startup, has delivered its first electric autonomous cargo plane to AFWERX, the US Air Force’s network of innovators. Established in 2017, Pyka has made impressive strides in the field of electric aviation, beginning its journey by focusing on crop spraying. The company’s first model, the Egret, was certified in New Zealand in May 2019, marking it as the first human-scale electric aircraft for commercial use.

This was followed by the introduction of Pyka’s second-generation electric plane, the Pelican, in January 2020. This model boasted of improved design and features, including the ability to carry over three times the payload of the Egret. After successful load and flight testing, serial production of the Pelican began in late 2020 in Oakland, California.

Pyka unveiled the Pelican Cargo in January, known as the world’s largest electric autonomous cargo plane. Following this, the company announced its delivery of the first Pelican electric cargo plane to AFWERX. Most notable for its military applications, the Pelican Cargo is the largest autonomous aircraft in its class, able to take off and land in remote areas. It offers rapid recharging, loading capabilities, and minimal supervision requirement features.

Powered by four electric motors and a 50 kWh lithium-ion battery, the Pelican Cargo can cover up to a 200 miles range with a 20 min reserve, and can carry a payload of up to 400 lbs. The cargo tray facilitates quick loading in as little as five minutes, and added GPS and Laser-Radar-based navigation systems enable the plane to operate at night. Plans are in place for the lease of two additional Pelican electric cargo planes to AFWERX.

Source: Cali startup delivers first electric cargo plane for US Air Force with up to 200 mi range.