An aircraft race sponsored by Airbus unveiled on Sunday at the Dubai Airshow an electric sports plane that was described as the first of its kind in the world.
Air Race E announced that British-based Condor Aviation would manufacture the White Lightning racing aircraft.
The aircraft is powered by an electric motor enabling it to fly at up to 482 kilometers per hour on a five-kilometer track at an altitude of only 10 meters.
"The race group will offer an opportunity to test innovation and accelerate the pace of commercial electric travel," said the race's chief executive, Jeff Zaltman.
The company said that the lithium batteries installed under the hull of the aircraft will provide the energy needed to fly for five minutes, very fast during the race, and about 10 minutes backup at low speed.
Air Race E aims to become the first electric aircraft race in the world, when it launches its first international competition in 2020.
The first eight teams are expected to announce this week for their first race.
Companies, including US passenger services firm Uber Technologies, are working to create electric "flying cars" amid growing concerns about the environmental impact of fossil fuel-based air transport.
Airbus' rival Boeing last month announced a partnership with Volkswagen's Porsche to develop a concept for a flying electric vehicle that can transport passengers in cities.
