Hunch Mobility opts for Electra’s hybrid-electric aircraft
January 23, 2025
Electra has signed a memorandum of understanding with Hunch Mobility, a technology platform focused on affordable on-demand air travel, to improve regional air connectivity in India.
The collaboration will utilise Electra’s EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft to bring accessible, sustainable, and quiet air travel to communities across one of the world’s fastest-growing and most traffic-congested nations.
The partnership was announced at the India Urban Air Mobility Expo 2025 in Greater Noida.
Electra’s EL9 aircraft, designed for ultra-short takeoff and landing (USTOL) in less than 150 feet, pairs with Hunch Mobility’s (operating under the BLADE India brand) software platform, network of aviation operators, and urban infrastructure. Together, the companies aim to provide direct, on-demand air connections for underserved regions.
In November, Electra revealed the design details of the EL9.
The aircraft combines blown lift technology with distributed electric propulsion using four independent battery packs and a small turbine-powered generator that drives eight electric motors distributed along the wing to provide high lift at low airspeeds.
The aircraft can take off and land in as short as 150 feet, and cruises at 175 knots. The EL9 will carry nine passengers with baggage or 3,000 pounds of cargo for 330 nautical miles, and has a maximum ferry range of 1,100 nautical miles with IFR reserves.
It will be certified for IFR and flight into known icing conditions. While the EL9 will be equipped with two pilot crew stations, Electra’s Safe Single Pilot technology with fly-by-wire controls will enable landings for a single pilot.
This versatility makes it a good fit for India’s changing mobility landscape, the companies said.
“We are excited to partner with Hunch Mobility to bring our EL9 aircraft to the Indian market,” said Marc Ausman, vice president, sales and support at Electra.
“This partnership combines Electra’s innovative aircraft technology with Hunch Mobility’s operational expertise and market presence to deliver cleaner, quieter, and faster transportation options that address India’s pressing mobility challenges.”
Amit Dutta, managing director, Hunch Mobility, added: “Our partnership with Electra represents a significant step forward in our mission to reduce travel friction and offer cost-effective air transportation alternatives. The EL9 aircraft will enable us to expand our services and provide a seamless transition to electric air mobility for our customers.
“We are happy and proud to announce this partnership at the CII Urban Air Mobility Expo 2025, a landmark event playing a pivotal role in advancing India’s leadership in urban air mobility. This platform brings together manufacturers, facilitators, and operators to foster collaboration and innovation, shaping a future-ready air mobility ecosystem.”
