The test saw the Solar Impulse take some slow steps down the runway using four solar-powered electric motors. The plane taxied without landing gear -- just like in a normal takeoff. Now that the runway test was successful, the Solar Impulse team will taxi to takeoff speed and let the plane take off for some short "hops" in the air. Full-fledged flight tests will begin next year.
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Very nice. The four motors looked to be pretty powerful.
Here is another interesting video of a solar powered aircraft. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NCOPLEJOl0