Smartflyer AG, an innovative aircraft manufacturer and H55 SA, the leading provider of certified electric propulsion systems, are proud to announce they officially signed a new partnership today during the Electrifly-in Opening at Bern Airport in the presence of Rolf Stuber, Smartflyer founder and CEO, and Martin Larose, H55 CEO, represented by Axel Doffey, European Sales Manager. Under this agreement, H55 will supply the batteries for Smartflyer’s pioneering hybrid-electric aircraft, the SF-1.

For Smartflyer, this collaboration represents a decisive step forward. As the battery is one of the core systems of the SF-1, being able to rely on H55’s expertise and proven track record is of great value. Over the past years, H55 has consistently demonstrated that it meets and exceeds the high quality and safety standards demanded by the aviation industry.

Each component of H55’s technology – from individual battery cells to full battery modules – has been specifically developed for aviation and, importantly, will be the first to receive certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This achievement serves as a true quality seal and is a clear mark of “Swissness”, combining innovation, reliability, and precision engineering.

H55’s latest battery system surpasses the originally expected capacity, providing Smartflyer with enhanced performance and additional operational flexibility. Looking ahead, this partnership also enables the integration of H55’s newest batteries into Smartflyer’s upcoming battery nose module, currently under development. By uniting their strengths, Smartflyer and H55 will accelerate the arrival of a new era in sustainable aviation. Rolf Stuber, Smartflyer CEO said: ‘With H55, we have found a partner who fully shares our vision of innovation, safety, and sustainability. H55’s advanced battery technology is not only a technical milestone for the SF-1, but also a cornerstone in redefining the future of aviation and accelerating the path toward lower-emission flying.’

This collaboration is fully aligned with H55’s strategy of delivering modular systems adaptable to multiple applications. It enables a seamless transition — from entry-level, all-electric aircraft based on existing designs that accelerate the adoption of quiet and efficient propulsion, to more complex solutions optimized for hybrid-electric systems that evolve in step with advancing technology and growing market maturity. Martin Larose, H55 CEO, said: ‘What impresses H55 is the strong credibility of the project, underpinned by well-thought-out and truly innovative concepts. Its design, application, and production approach are not only smart but also highly efficient, both technologically and operationally. The clever airframe design further strengthens this advantage and makes Smartflyer an ideal partner in accelerating the transition toward sustainable aviation.”

Representing H55 at the signing ceremony, Axel Doffey goes on to say that the “hybrid project architecture is a key highlight, as it offers performance levels comparable to combustion engines while maintaining a clear edge in sustainability, easing operational requirements while ensuring the most environmentally responsible solutions.”

With the first demonstrator set to fly in 2026—an important milestone already shaping the industry— H55 and Smartflyer are showing that aviation is decisively moving toward a new era of sustainable, efficient, and affordable mobility.