The Safran x Airbus EcoPulse aircraft recently completed its first hybrid-electric test flight after taking off from Tarbes Airport on November 29, at 10:32 hrs CET. It managed to fly with its ePropellers activated, powered by a battery and a turbogenerator.
This prototype is equipped with six integrated electric thrusters, also called e-Propellers (supplied by Safran), distributed along the wings. It draws power from two sources: a turbogenerator driven by a gas turbine, and a high-energy density battery pack. At the heart of everything is a Power Distribution and Rectifier Unit (PDRU), which protects the high-voltage network and for distributing the available electrical power, as well as high-voltage power harnesses. The Airbus-designed battery pack is rated at 800 Volts DC and can deliver up to 350 kilowatts of power.
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We confirmed today that this disruptive propulsion system works in flight, which paves the way for more sustainable aviation. The lessons learned from upcoming flight tests will feed into our technology roadmap and strengthen our position as leader in future all-electric and hybrid-electric propulsive systems,” said Eric Dalbiès, Safran’s Executive Vice President Strategy and Chief Technology Officer.
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