China successfully flew its first four-seat electric aircraft in the northeastern city of Shenyang, Xinhua News Agency reported. The maiden flight could help the country attain global leadership in battery-powered airplanes.

Named the RX4E, the electric airplane features a takeoff weight of 1,200 kilograms and is able to fly as far as 300 kilometers on a single charge. The flight range could be extended as battery technology improves. The flight took place just four days after China completed a test flight of its fifth C919 prototype plane.

The electric aircraft is powered by a 70 kWh battery to achieve larger power storage capacity, Xinhua reported. The plane is 77% made of lightweight and corrosion-resistant carbon materials.

“The RX4E aircraft has a great market space and prospect and will be used in short-distance transport, pilot training, sightseeing, aerial photography and aerial mapping,” said Zhao Tienan, deputy head of Liaoning General Aviation Research Institute, which is developing the electric aircraft.

Contact reporter Ding Yi (yiding@caixin.com)