Simplicity meets elegance
Harmonious flight characteristics combined with independence: The Ventus E impresses with reliable performance for safe yet quiet self-launching - even at maximum take-off mass
More than 250 of the Ventus-3, the popular 15/18 metre single-seater, have been built since its maiden flight in 2016 and the series has achieved numerous top places at national and international championships. Outstanding aerodynamics and harmonious flight characteristics make the Ventus one of Schempp-Hirth's most popular gliders.
With the electric self-launching Ventus E, a self-launching, emission-free electric motorisation is now being presented for both the Performance and Sport Editions of the Ventus. The approved engine unit from our long-standing engine supplier Solo delivers approx. 39 kW (53 hp) peak power at 2900 rpm, providing sufficient power for a safe self-start at all times; the smell of petrol and oil residue are a thing of the past. The system was designed with the following features in mind:
Eco-friendly: Electric motors are low-emission and low-noise; the remaining noise is generated by the propeller. Schempp-Hirth's newly developed, extra-large 140cm propeller of the retractable engine delivers the necessary power even at low speeds to reduce propeller noise. The resulting reduction in aircraft noise helps to increase acceptance among neighbours of the airfield.
Simple: The engine is extremely easy to operate: the fully automatic, rapid retraction and extension, starting and stopping of the engine and battery management are performed via a central digital control unit (DCU) in the instrument panel, which also displays messages in plain text. The power of the engine is controlled safely and with a steady hand via a separate lever on the cockpit side, similar to a throttle lever.
Clever batteries: The two EMECTRIC 400-volt batteries are installed in the fuselage and are therefore easily accessible. The BMS in each battery ensures even charging and discharging of the cells within the batteries as well as between the two batteries. Sturdy handles, quick-release connectors and sliding ramps ensure easy and safe removal of the batteries - which can also be charged without removing them from the fuselage.
Flexible performance: The system can be used with either one or two batteries: The installation of two batteries provides maximum power and allows self-launching; with only one battery, the minimum wing loading can be reduced without having to sacrifice a safe return home. A liquid cooling system ensures optimum temperature management of the drive system, which should, for example, enable independent taxiing for take-off.
Features:
EMECTRIC batteries: two individually removable 400-volt batteries installed in the fuselage, rated output 8.4 kWh/ 22.4 Ah (2 kg per battery)
Weight: with a system weight of 77 kg (incl. batteries, motor, tower, inverter, etc.), the Ventus has an empty weight of about 400 kg.
Optional battery compartment: easily accessible battery compartment as an ergonomic leg rest also serves to optimise the centre of gravity
Electrical water ballast: easy-to-use management for water ballast, batteries, bug wiper and all fuses via the new integrative control unit. Ensures a tidy and clear cockpit
Reachable altitude: approx. 2,500 m / 8,200 ft
Climb rate (470 kg): 4.1 m/s
(600 kg): 3.3 m/s
Schempp-Hirth CEO Sascha Costabel is enthusiastic about the new system: "We took our time to develop our electric self-launcher in order to offer our customers minimal compromises and maximum flexibility. We are particularly pleased that this system enables our Sport Edition, which is particularly popular with competition pilots, to self-launch for the first time."
Tilo Holighaus adds: "Gliding has always been environmentally friendly and has been proving the silent, optimal utilisation of solar and wind energy for reaching long distances and achieving high average speeds since the very beginning. With the low-emission and low-noise electric drive, we are taking a further step towards environmental friendliness and sustainability. It is therefore only logical that we have planned from the outset to make this new electric drive system retrofittable for existing aircraft."
Easy access battery compartment DCU (Digital Control Unit): User-friendly control unit
Responsible for the content:
Schempp-Hirth Flugzeug-Vertriebs GmbH - Sascha Costabel
Krebenstr. 25, 73230 Kirchheim unter Teck
Telefon: (07021) 7298-0 Mobil (0176) 70855429
Contact for more information and sales enquiries:
sales@schempp-hirth.com