MegaFlight
Lead Participant:
ROLLS-ROYCE PLC
Abstract
"Electric and hybrid-electric propulsion is being hailed as the next generation of flight, with double digit percentage Specific Fuel Consumption (SFC) reductions anticipated. There are currently many different hybrid-electric and all-electric aircraft concepts being proposed by a whole host of companies, ranging from traditional airliners, airframers and propulsion companies, to non-aerospace suppliers and start-ups.
As an aerospace propulsion provider, it is critical for Rolls-Royce to develop technologies and capabilities to remain relevant and competitive if an airframer does make the jump to an all-electric or hybrid-electric propulsion platform. Rolls-Royce is not sold on one single future aircraft architecture and therefore needs to develop technology and capability that can be applied to a wide range of future concepts.
These technologies and capabilities include:
* Megawatt class power generation systems
* Megawatt class electric propulsor units
* Thrust control for electric propulsors
* Novel aircraft integration experience
* An understanding of airworthiness requirements for such propulsion systems
In order to rapidly develop and find solutions to challenges associated with the technologies listed above, Rolls-Royce needs to fly these components. Testing on the ground will not suffice to reduce the risks associated with a megawatt class hybrid-electric propulsion system. Airbus' E-Fan X demonstrator gives Rolls-Royce a route to fly these technologies on a safe platform."
As an aerospace propulsion provider, it is critical for Rolls-Royce to develop technologies and capabilities to remain relevant and competitive if an airframer does make the jump to an all-electric or hybrid-electric propulsion platform. Rolls-Royce is not sold on one single future aircraft architecture and therefore needs to develop technology and capability that can be applied to a wide range of future concepts.
These technologies and capabilities include:
* Megawatt class power generation systems
* Megawatt class electric propulsor units
* Thrust control for electric propulsors
* Novel aircraft integration experience
* An understanding of airworthiness requirements for such propulsion systems
In order to rapidly develop and find solutions to challenges associated with the technologies listed above, Rolls-Royce needs to fly these components. Testing on the ground will not suffice to reduce the risks associated with a megawatt class hybrid-electric propulsion system. Airbus' E-Fan X demonstrator gives Rolls-Royce a route to fly these technologies on a safe platform."
Lead Participant | Project Cost | Grant Offer |
---|---|---|
ROLLS-ROYCE PLC | £34,408,362 | £ 17,204,181 |
People |
ORCID iD |
Adam Brazell (Project Manager) |