Swiss-based aviation propulsion systems company H55 has inaugurated the opening of its new production site and engineering offices in Canada to manufacture aircraft battery packs.
The aircraft battery pack facility is in Québec’s aerospace innovation zone in Longueuil and marks the firm’s first North American location as well as launch of production in Canada for customer aircraft.
It is set to deliver battery modules for the Bristell B23 Energic electric aircraft, as well as electric propulsion systems, and has already sold over 100 systems on that platform.
H55, which operates in the country via a Canadian subsidiary, said it also serves major customers including CAE, Pratt & Whitney Canada, and Harbour Air.
It is expecting its 100kW electric propulsion system to be certified soon, with the first deliveries due for 2026.
Christine Fréchette, Québec Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy, said, “I am proud that our government is supporting H55, which will produce electric batteries for the aviation market. Our $10 million investment has enabled the company to grow and to choose Quebec as the location for its North American headquarters. Aerospace is a key sector of our economy, and innovation in electrification helps us maintain our position as a global leader.”
“Following the commercial success of our US tour, I am delighted to inaugurate our battery assembly line in Quebec,” said André Borschberg, co-founder and executive chairman of H55. “This reflects our determination to expand our activities in North America and to be closer to our Canadian customers. The electric flight experience convinced every passenger who flew aboard the Bristell B23 Energic, powered by H55’s propulsion system and technology.”
Image: A view inside the new aircraft battery pack facility in Canada. Credit: H55.
