SILENT FLIGHT ON THE X-57 ‘MAXWELL’

Imagine heading down the runway on takeoff with no engine noise. That could soon be possible with NASA'S first all-electric plane. It will be lithium-ion battery-powered and run off renewable-based electricity. The X-57 is currently in its high-voltage functional ground testing stage.

Weight — approximately 3,000 pounds

Maximum operational altitude — 14,000 feet

Cruise speed — 172 mph (at 8,000 feet)

Critical takeoff speed — 67 mph

PHOTO BY TOM TSCHIDA Engine testing at Edwards Air Force Base