Electrical Aviation

Pioneering Electrification

We are championing aircraft electrification to deliver the clean, sustainable, safe, and silent propulsion and energy systems for the urban and regional air mobility markets of tomorrow.

A move for greener solutions

The electrification of aviation is a potential game-changer for our societies.

With the continued growth of populations and mega-cities around the globe, we have an opportunity to connect people sustainably.

At Rolls-Royce, we’re developing, testing, and innovating the technologies and systems to create the electric propulsion and energy systems of tomorrow.

Why we are championing electric flight

Energy efficiency

Electric propulsion systems can be higher in power density and more efficient than conventional propulsion, increasing flight range and enabling more efficient aircraft designs, improved aerodynamics, and innovations in energy storage density.

Fuel efficiency

Aircraft can be powered fully or partially by electricity, reducing dependency on fossil fuels and minimising operational costs.

Durability

Electric aircraft systems require less maintenance and enable turbines in hybrid-electric systems to constantly run at optimal operating point, leading to less wear and tear, longer operation cycles and reduced cost of ownership.

Silence

The separation of power and thrust generation alongside optimised component placement and propeller systems significantly reduce aircraft noise, enabling access to more urban areas for take-off and landing, whatever the time of day.

Electrification in aviation: Advanced Air Mobility solutions lead the way

Electrical power and propulsion systems will lead the way for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), enabling silent short and vertical take-off and landing capabilities while lowering emissions and reducing fuel consumption.

Air taxis eVTOL

Urban air mobility (UAM) such as air taxis and electric take-off and landing vehicles (eVTOL) are due to take to the skies by the mid-2020s, creating a billion-pound market size.

Designed to carry up to four people or transport light cargo, the urban air mobility industry will revolutionise intracity travel and supply chains.

As battery technology improves and new hybrid-electric concepts are introduced, eVTOL will become even more sustainable and able to fly for longer ranges at higher speeds. The drive to go further and faster will see hybrid eVTOL move into the longer-ranging inter-city aviation market, allowing them to become testbeds for newly emerging autonomous technologies.

Our portfolio

CLOSE

"The increased use of electrical systems is an inescapable trend in our markets, and championing electrification is a core part of our long-term strategy at Rolls-Royce."

Olaf Otto, President – Electrical, Rolls-Royce

Get in touch

Contact us if you are interested in our electrical portfolio and would like to partner with us in making sustainable flight a reality.