Maxwell Presents M1-HC Hybrid Amphibious Cargo Aircraft Concept

Maxwell Aircraft has presented the M1 Hybrid Cargo, or M1-HC, a proposed amphibious cargo aircraft. The company describes it as a hybrid design for moving cargo between waterways and remote airstrips.

Key details

• Maxwell’s proposed power system pairs electric motors with turbocharged compression-ignition engines that burn Jet A; both would drive propellers through a shared gearbox.
• The company lists a target cruise speed of 135 knots and combined power of up to 1,500 horsepower for takeoff and initial climb, with about 300 horsepower in cruise.
• The proposed aircraft is based on the Gweduck amphibian design and is reported to feature a carbon-fiber and Kevlar airframe, retractable wingtip floats, reversible propellers, a five-foot-wide loading door and interior tie-downs.
• Maxwell is reported to be working with Carbon Seaplanes, with initial flight testing targeted for 2027.

Maxwell targets a payload of 2,000 pounds and a range exceeding 1,000 nautical miles for the M1-HC.

Why it matters

The proposed design combines amphibious operation with cargo-focused features, including a wide loading door and interior tie-downs. Its hybrid power system is intended to provide electric assistance during takeoff and climb, while fuel-burning engines provide cruise power.