ELECTRIC XENOS

[taildragger]

The Xenos is the most efficient airframe Sonex makes, so I bought a quick build kit and:

- Electric motorcycle, the Zero DSR, for it’s 70HP motor, battery, controller and charger
- Zaero redrive kit

EV Advantages
- $3/hr to operate
- Up to 180 minutes of run time, with two batteries
- 10x more reliable than ICE. Just had three of our EAA Chapter 1250 members suffer in-flight ICE engine failures. One was a “crash and burn” Subaru engine failure on an RV7.
- One tenth the maintenance cost and down time

See: https://www.kitplanes.com/electrified-sonex-exenos/
https://www.homebuiltairplanes.com/foru ... kit.36954/

Expect to have it flying by 2023.

[BRS]

Do I understand correctly that you plan on getting a second zero battery and install them both? Will you put it in the place of the fuel tank?

[taildragger]

One battery will be installed forward the firewall. Once it is certified, and the need arises, I'll install a second battery either where the fuel tank or the copilot's seat.

[taildragger]

ZAERO.JPG (53.3 KiB) Viewed 31615 times

Update:

1) Zaero redrive kit just arrived. I will be documenting the installation process to help other pioneers.

2) Analyzed the design. It uses two SKF bearings that were specifically calculated for this application. Looks reliable and low-maintenance:
ADVANTAGES
- 10x more reliable. 10x less moving parts.
- No oil changes, no exhaust, smooth running.
- 2 to 1 ratio lets Zero DSR motor run cooler and more efficiently.
- Maintenance: 1000 hours TBO. Change four pressed-in bearings (Two in motor, two in redrive) and belt
- Inspections:
1) Pre-flight
Visual and audible inspection of SKF bearings, two sprockets, cogs and bolts as practicable.
Example: Turn propeller and listen for unusual sounds.
Check belt tension and condition.
2) Annual
Inspect SKF bearings, two sprockets, and bolts. Look for metal particles around, damaged or leaking bearing seals. Turn propeller and listen for unusual sounds.

PLANS
I will install a non-contact thermometer and monitor hub (where two SKF bearings are located) temperature. This a truckers tip: hot bearings are bad.