EN 
PT_BR 
Embraer and EDP Smart, a division that brings together the portfolio of energy solutions from the Portuguese company EDP, have signed a partnership that promises to revolutionize the mobility sector in Brazil.
This is because the companies announced that the first flight of an electric plane prototype with 100% electric propulsion technology should take place in 2021.
The investment is part of the cooperation agreement that both signed to advance knowledge of energy storage and battery recharging technologies for aviation.
The partnership will make it possible to investigate the applicability of high voltage batteries for the electric propulsion system of a small aircraft, in addition to evaluating their main operating characteristics, such as weight, efficiency and energy quality, heating control and management, cycling loading, unloading and operating safety.
“We aim to lead the energy transition to a low-carbon economy. A partnership with Embraer in the development of its first demonstrator aircraft with 100% electric propulsion technology represents a new frontier of our investment in electric mobility, contributing to positioning Brazil as a leading player in this market”, highlighted Miguel Setas, president of EDP in Brazil.
Tests
The tests are being carried out with a small single-engine aircraft that carries out primary evaluation of electrification technologies. Ground tests have been taking place at the Embraer unit in Botucatu (SP), in preparation for the first flight that will take place at the Embraer unit in Gavião Peixoto (SP).
According to the company, the aviation electrification process is part of a set of efforts carried out to meet environmental sustainability commitments, similar to what has already been done with biofuels to reduce the need for carbon.
Investment in renewable energy
EDP's goal is to electrify 100% of its fleet by 2030, as well as to develop new offers and commercial solutions that promote energy efficiency. Last year, the company approved in a Public Call from ANEEL (National Electric Energy Agency) projects representing an investment of around R$ 50 million, via the R&D (Research and Development) fund, its own resources and partners.
