VerdeGo Aero: Powering the Future of Aviation with Hybrid-Electric Innovation

The aerospace industry is on the verge of its next great transformation. While hybrid-electric and battery-electric technology has reshaped ground transportation, aviation has been slower to adapt due to one key limitation: batteries are too heavy for flight, and are holding back the use of electric motors which enable revolutionary new aircraft designs that are more efficient, more maneuverable, and safer. That’s where VerdeGo Aero comes in.

Founded in 2017 in Daytona Beach, Florida, VerdeGo Aero is pioneering hybrid-electric propulsion systems that generate power on board an aircraft, allowing for longer flight times, greater payload capacity, and more sustainable aviation solutions. Under the leadership of Eric Bartsch, CEO and Co-Founder, VerdeGo Aero is bridging the gap between electrification and practicality—creating propulsion systems that allow next-generation aircraft to take off, fly farther, and operate more efficiently.

“The big revolution in electrified aviation isn’t about batteries—it’s about electric motors,” says Bartsch. “Our hybrid-electric powerplants give aircraft the range, power, and flexibility they need without being limited by battery weight.”

A Clear Vision for a Hybrid Future

The inspiration for VerdeGo Aero came nearly eight years ago, when Bartsch and his fellow co-founders Dr. Pat Anderson and Erik Lindbergh realized the inevitable future of aviation was electric. Unlike ground transportation, where battery-electric technology is already dominant, aircraft have unique constraints—every pound matters, and every additional pound makes flight harder.

“There are some very compelling reasons for electrification in aviation, but it doesn’t look anything like what we’ve seen in cars,” Bartsch explains. “Aircraft need lightweight, high-performance power systems, and hybrid-electric propulsion is the key to making that work.”

By generating power on board the aircraft, VerdeGo Aero’s systems enable a new generation of aircraft to operate with electric motors—without relying on massive, heavy battery packs.

The Technology: Hybrid-Electric Powerplants

At the core of VerdeGo Aero’s innovation is its hybrid-electric powerplant, designed to increase efficiency, extend flight range, and reduce operating costs. Unlike traditional jet or piston engines, VerdeGo’s systems allow aircraft to use electric motors while still leveraging fuel-based energy sources for extended range and endurance. By generating power onboard, VerdeGo Aero eliminates range anxiety, improves efficiency by reducing fuel consumption by 50-70%, and offers flexibility by supporting both conventional jet fuel and sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs). “Our hybrid powerplants allow aircraft to fly farther, carry more, and operate more efficiently, all while preparing for the shift to sustainable fuels,” says Bartsch.

Early Adoption: Military and Commercial Applications

Hybrid-electric technology is gaining traction across military, commercial aviation, and advanced air mobility sectors. VerdeGo Aero is already collaborating with dozens of companies designing next-generation aircraft that will redefine the future of flight. The U.S. military is an early adopter, using VerdeGo’s systems to extend the range and endurance of autonomous aircraft and long-range surveillance drones. Regional and cargo airlines benefit from the powerplants’ ability to reduce costs and emissions, potentially restoring air service to smaller regional airports. Urban air mobility and air taxis, previously constrained by battery limitations, now have a path forward with VerdeGo’s hybrid systems providing the necessary range and speed improvements.

“We’re at a turning point,” says Bartsch. “The energy and momentum behind hybrid-electric aviation today is stronger than ever, and VerdeGo is helping make it a mainstream reality.”

Florida’s Role in VerdeGo Aero’s Success

Headquartered in Daytona Beach, Florida, VerdeGo Aero benefits from proximity to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, the largest aviation and aerospace engineering school in the world.

“Our strong partnership with Embry-Riddle has given us access to an incredible pipeline of engineering talent,” says Bartsch. “We’ve had over 50 interns come through our doors, many of whom have stayed with us as full-time employees.”

Florida’s business-friendly climate, growing aerospace industry, and state-level support for innovation have also played a crucial role in VerdeGo’s growth. “Being based in Florida has been a huge advantage—there’s a deep aerospace network here, and the state actively supports companies like ours.”

A Growing Workforce & Expanding Operations

Since its founding in 2017, VerdeGo Aero has grown from three co-founders to a team of 35 employees, with plans to double in size over the next few years.

“With our technology maturing and market adoption accelerating, we expect to grow from 35 to 80+ employees in the near future,” Bartsch shares. “We’re at the forefront of a new era in aviation, and we need talented people to help make it happen.”

VerdeGo Aero’s growth has also been fueled by strategic venture capital and investments from major aerospace companies. Unlike many aerospace startups that take years to generate revenue, VerdeGo has been generating revenue since 2020, thanks to demand from aircraft developers who need hybrid powerplants for ground and flight testing before commercial deployment.

Recognition as a GrowFL Flhorida Companies to Watch Honoree

Being named a GrowFL 2024 Florida Companies to Watch honoree is a testament to VerdeGo Aero’s innovative impact on the aerospace industry.

“This recognition is incredibly meaningful for us,” says Bartsch. “We’ve received global recognition in the aerospace world, but it’s great to see our impact acknowledged right here in Florida.”

Advice For Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Bartsch emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with experienced advisors and learning from those who have already navigated the challenges of entrepreneurship. He believes that while every business faces unknown obstacles, having a strong network can help avoid common pitfalls. “Get a strong network of advisors so you don’t have to learn everything the hard way,” he advises.

The Future of VerdeGo Aero

With its VH-4T hybrid powerplant, VerdeGo Aero is poised to revolutionize aviation. The company is actively working with military, commercial, and cargo aircraft manufacturers to deploy its hybrid systems at scale over the next five years.

“We’re not just developing technology—we’re redefining what’s possible in aviation,” says Bartsch. “In the coming years, you’ll see hybrid-electric aircraft becoming a mainstream reality—and VerdeGo Aero will be at the heart of that transformation.”