TOULOUSE, France—Inspired by auto racing's popular Formula E series, Air Race E plans to hold its first series of competitions in 2020 in partnership with Airbus.

Whenever anyone mentions hybrid-electric vehicles today, most people automatically think of cars, buses and trucks. But, up in the sky, the technology is also getting a lot of attention from aerospace engineers. That’s because electric systems are greener, lighter, quieter and more energy-efficient than traditional alternatives.