Hi Mike!

I hear what you´re saying. I´m however one of those guys who think that 10 years from now (at least here in Europe), the guys running IC engines will be the die-hard engine enthusiats only. The reasons for that are many, but besides the simplicity, I think the main reasons (at least here in Europe) will be noise restrictions, etc. And the reason I´m so excited about the fact that electrics have found their way to F3A is not just performance, but the fact that I have been flying nothing but electrics since 1998. That´s almost 7 years ago, and I´m just 20 (soon to be 21) years old.

So basically I find it very exciting that electrics, which I have loved for so long, have now gotten to the point where they actually have a slight edge compared to the IC motors performance wise. It´s still a high initial cost though whereas fule cost is more of a spread cost, making it easier to handle. I didn´t think the day would come this soon that I would be able to live the dream of competing in pattern with electrics, but the fact is that with some careful priorities, I will actually have two completely equipped electric pattern planes by the time the summer arrives and it´s so exciting I almost start giggling just thinking about it. With the recent great motor offerings at great prices, this is becoming available to everyone. If a 20 year old Swedish guy in school with basically no income can do it, many others can too. Well actually I´m not going for a full 2x2m plane, but the new Fliton Infinity 90 equipped with the brand new Modelmotors AXI 5320/28 motor. 1800W in an 8-9lb plane should do the trick. Especially with the 18" prop.

So for me it´s not so much to copy what the top guys are doing (hey! they copied what I´ve been doing for the last 7 years ) but it´s more about finally being able to do what I´ve been dreaming about during my entire 10 years I´ve been flying.

But like you say, it´s far from perfect yet. Well actually, the motors are pretty close to perfect if you ask me, but the batteries are not. At least not safety wise. But as more people use the technology the demand for safer and better performing batteries will be even greater, forcing the manufacturers to make what we need.

I do however look forward to a lot of practise and the great satisfaction of improving my pilot skills this summer and who knows, maybe next winter I´ll be building your upcoming design, electric of course.

/Erik