CAC are working on an all-electric motor for a future COIN aircraft (COIN-X) but that motor may be fitted to the A-85 after successful trials in a converted O-43. The motor is an electric motor powered by fuel cells. The power is not yet the same as the piston engine in the A-85 and range is lower though CAC are confident they can bridge these gaps. Coupled with a new propeller and some aerodynamic refinements the A-85 could be almost silent in flight which would give it a huge tactical advantage.
CAC are also looking into "inflight recharging" of an all-electric aeroplane. The A-85NT is currently in production but a next generation is planned for late in the decade and this could have the electric engine.
