Airbus, Siemens, and Rolls Royce plans to fly a hybrid-electric propulsion demonstrator in 2020

A fully electrified future is not far away. Nowadays every industry follows the emmission free electric modes like Tesla.

With accordance to that Airbus, Siemens, and Rolls Royce has formed a partnership to create an electrified aircraft under the E Fan X program which aims to fly its demonstrator in 2020. A BAe 146 regional airliner modified to flight-test a 2-megawatt, serial-hybrid propulsion system.

A potential for regional aircraft with lower operating costs, emissions, and noise that brings air transport closer to its customers. It is the driving vision behind Airbus’ plan to fly a hybrid-electric propulsion demonstrator in 2020.

The aim of the project E-Fan X is to replace one of its four gas turbine engines on a short-haul airliner with the motor for a test flight by 2020. If successful, a second gas turbine motor would then be swapped out.

The E-Fan X program will see Rolls-Royce be responsible for the turbo-shaft engine, two-megawatt generator, and power electronics. Along with Airbus, Rolls-Royce will also work on the fan adaptation to the existing nacelle. The Siemens will develop the two-megawatt electric motor under the wing. Furthermore, Airbus will take responsibility for integration of the system, including how it works with flight controls.

The hybrid electric jet will seat up to 12 people. It would fly up to 700 miles and have operating costs of 8 cents per seat mile, according to the firm behind it. And aims to power a regional 100-seat passenger jet in the long run.