Helping hybrid-electric flight go further

Helping hybrid-electric flight go further

As we look ahead to a net zero carbon future, growing populations and increased pressure on transport networks will deliver new challenges for an industry in transition. All-electric and hybrid-electric aircraft are already playing a vital role in transforming the way we travel, as well as providing new opportunities for the thin haul cargo market to meet the rising demands of e-commerce sustainably.

Demand is taking off

Demand is taking off

The market for small all-electric and hybrid-electric aircraft is set to take off in parts of Europe, where there are ambitious targets for shorter travel times and reduced carbon emissions. In regions such as Scandinavia, new electric and hybrid commuter aircraft have the potential to significantly decrease travel times between remote and hard to reach locations and make use of existing air transport networks, reinvigorating smaller communities and islands in the process.

The ability to use shorter runways means these aircraft can utilise widespread regional airfield networks that are often underserved, particularly in rural regions without easy access to main transport networks. Hybrid and electric aircraft also have the advantage of being able to take off and land silently using battery power. An attractive prospect in densely populated areas.

Flying further on sustainable fuels

Flying further on sustainable fuels

At Rolls-Royce, we’re already working with Norwegian regional carrier, Widerøe, to deliver an all-electric passenger aircraft within the decade. Alongside this, we aim to take a leading position in delivering modular and scalable power solutions that enable extended range using sustainable aviation fuels.

Through our research and development into these new capabilities, we’re developing turbogenerator technologies, with provision for hydrogen combustion, that will complement hybrid-electric propulsion, energy distribution and storage systems. This will reduce reliance on traditional fuels and enable aircraft to fly for longer on one charge.

The project, which is funded by the German Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action brings together engineering, energy efficiency and safety expertise from across our European facilities in Germany, Hungary and Norway.

Our experts are exploring turbogenerator design and system integration that will complement the Rolls-Royce electrical propulsion portfolio and enable smart power distribution during flight. The turbogenerator will recharge batteries after take-off or power propellers directly, enabling aircraft to switch between power sources in flight.

Transforming the way we travel

The development of such capabilities heralds a new transition into electric propulsion and more sustainable flight, which will one day lead to improved efficiencies in larger aircraft.

Alongside aircraft propulsion, we’re working with our customers to implement advanced aircraft mobility across the entire energy infrastructure. We’re developing scalable, sustainable and cost-effective charging solutions like vertiports that will enable access to fast charging through established air transport networks and airfields, minimising the need for costly investment in ground developments or new road infrastructure.

Right now, the benefits for the future of short-haul air transport in Europe are clear and we are building the capabilities to make the future of travel a reality.

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