DG Aviation, LZ-Design, and AdvanTec Cooperate in Electric Gliding
DG Aviation GmbH presents, in collaboration with AdvanTec GmbH and LZ-Design, a groundbreaking retrofit solution called “FEStrofit” for LS gliders. The proven Front Electric Sustainer (FES) system from LZ-Design is now available in combination with newly developed wing batteries from AdvanTec for many variants of the LS6 and LS8 series. This innovative solution combines electric performance, practical integration, and highest safety standards – ideal for all pilots and clubs looking to sustainably upgrade and enhance their aircraft.
FES Retrofit with Wing Batteries – Available for LS6 and LS8 Models
The retrofit is possible for many models in the LS6 series (LS6-b, LS6-c, LS6-c17, LS6-18w) as well as the LS8 series (LS8-a, LS8-18). Now, a comprehensive retrofit concept is available that takes into account both 15-meter and 18-meter configurations – including the pure 15-meter variants. A review of the possible model series can be carried out via DG Aviation.
A recent survey among LS owners confirmed a strong interest in this solution, and DG Aviation is now responding with an offer to interested parties:
From now on, the retrofit can be reserved at the target price of approximately €80,000 (net).
The decision to integrate the batteries into the wings is primarily based on a structural advantage: it enables a retrofit with the FES system even for many older LS6 and LS8 models – including the 18-meter variants. A retrofit with fuselage batteries would not have been feasible for these aircraft due to structural and design limitations.
Technical Highlights of the Retrofit
- Newly developed wing battery, usable for 15 m and 18 m wingspans
- Example values for an LS8-e:
- Climb rate at 15 m wingspan: approx. 1.8 m/s (full battery), approx. 1.2 m/s (partially discharged)
- Climb height: up to 1,350 m
- Maximum range in cruising flight (without water ballast): approx. 160 km
- Significant performance enhancement
- Removal of internal wing water tanks to make space for the batteries
- Battery installation and removal according to the pilot/owner guidelines possible
- Retrofit includes the FES system for approx. €80,000 including installation and acceptance flight (System cost: approx. €50,000)
Battery Technology from AdvanTec – Powerful, Safe, and Intelligent
The wing batteries are developed by AdvanTec GmbH in Augsburg and are based on the SafeBatt2Fly battery system, which is specifically designed for safety-critical applications in aviation.
Key features of the SafeBatt2Fly system:
- Modular design of battery modules for easy maintenance, expandability, and integration
- Bidirectional data communication for secure monitoring via a dual CAN bus system
- Provides single-module monitoring with dual redundancy for maximum operational safety
- Wireless data transmission of the battery modules to the BMS using Daisy-Chain technology, simplifying integration and maintenance with no voltage loss in sleep mode
- Energy storage up to 9 kWh possible – the system achieves a maximum range of up to 160 km in cruising flight.
Drive Technology from LZ Design – Proven Glider Drive
The electric drive system from LZ Design has been a reliable and efficient electric drive for modern gliders for years. Combined with the battery systems developed by AdvanTec GmbH in Augsburg, this creates a highly integrated system that stands out due to its robust design and high level of safety, making it particularly suitable for use in gliding.
Key features of the drive system:
- Maximum power: 22 kW
- Continuous climb power: 17 kW
- Power requirement in cruising flight: approx. 7 kW
- The complete system is characterized by easy operation, low-maintenance components, and a high level of safety – ideal for everyday use in performance gliding and training operations.
Secure Your Option – with Planning Security and Perspective
To economically secure the development and manufacturing, the introduction will take place within the framework of an option model. Once at least five binding options are received, DG Aviation will begin the technical implementation. The first retrofits are expected to be completed within the next two years.
An additional development path is also being prepared: the FES retrofit with fuselage batteries for LS6 and LS8 models with 18 m wingspan. The project will start upon receiving sufficient demand.
At present, no retrofitting is planned for other LS series – however, should enough interest arise, a technical feasibility review will be carried out.
More Information / Contact and Reservation:
📧 eMail: info@Dg-Aviation.de
🌐 Web: www.DG-Aviation.de
DG Produkt-Link:
🌐 https://www.Dg-Aviation.de/dg-flugzeugbau-news/festrofit-ls6-ls8-kundeninformation/79384/
DG Formular-Link:
🌐 https://forms.office.com/e/4U3SKN0FMM
AdvanTec SafeBat2Fly:
🌐 https://advantecgmbh.de/safebatt2fly/
LZ Design d.o.o.
🌐 https://front-electric-sustainer.com/
Press contact:
NNO-Unternehmensnavigation
Stefan Gorkenant
Phone: +49 (0)163 25 44 882
📧 eMail: presse@vocus3.de
All rights reserved.
Texts by NNO-Unternehmensnavigation,
images © DG Aviation GmbH & AdvanTec GmbH.
Reusable with credit.