[3][4][5] The aircraft is based on the Pipistrel Virus airframe and features a cantilever high-wing, a two-seats-in-side-by-side configuration in an enclosed cabin accessed via doors.

It has a stick shaker[2] and fixed tricycle landing gear and a single electric motor in tractor configuration.

The motor radiator is mounted in the nose, which necessitates a different engine cowling from the Virus design.

The short time frame for the first certification of an electric aircraft was attributed by EASA to "close co-operation" between the manufacturer and the agency.

[8][9] In January 2021, Pipistrel announced an order for 50 Velis Electro from Green Aerolease from France.

[10] A similar deal was announced in October 2021 by the British company Green Airside, which will acquire 50 Velis Electros for rental to flight schools in the United Kingdom.

[11] In August and September 2020, a group of Swiss electric mobility enthusiasts with support from the manufacturer flew a Velis Electro on a series of flights intended to be accepted as world records.