Airbus Pursues Development of Electric Aircraft

In recent years, the trend of electrifying vehicles has gained momentum. However, the feasibility of this in aviation faces significant challenges, primarily due to limited range with electric motors caused by battery charging issues. While vehicles may be left stranded mid-journey, an aircraft running out of battery mid-flight could lead to a crash. Nevertheless, Airbus intends to initiate the electrification of aircraft using a hybrid approach. Initially, the company plans to develop an aircraft similar to the current four-engine BAE 146, which will feature one electric motor and three turbine engines. The turbine engines will not only provide normal propulsion but also charge the battery for the fourth electric motor. In the second phase, if the project is successful, two of the four engines will be converted to electric. The BAE 146 is a narrow-body passenger aircraft with a capacity of 100 passengers, manufactured by British Aerospace. Production of this aircraft ceased in 2001 after 387 units were built. It has four turbofan engines located under its wings and is designed to operate in short runway airports, although this design compromises comfort and leads to more lateral movements during landing. Airbus has announced that it aims to produce a large hybrid aircraft in collaboration with Siemens and Rolls-Royce, both of which have extensive experience in large electric motors and aircraft engine manufacturing, respectively. According to reports, this aircraft is expected to make its first flight by 2020, which is almost two years away. This new hybrid aircraft, named E-Fan X, will utilize two-megawatt electric motors manufactured by Siemens. Airbus has stated that the first phase of testing for this aircraft will begin in 2018. During these tests, one of the aircraft's engines will initially be replaced with an electric motor, and if successful, another of the four engines will also be replaced with an additional electric motor. This will mark a significant step in the testing and development of this hybrid aircraft. In this tripartite collaboration, Airbus will supply and produce the control systems, guidance, and batteries for the aircraft, Siemens will provide the electric motors and other necessary electronic components, and Rolls-Royce will manufacture the turbofan engine and all related components for integration with the electric motors. This hybrid aircraft will use jet fuel for takeoff and has a flight range of 620 miles, making it suitable for routes such as New York to Michigan. Additionally, Airbus aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from its aircraft by 75% and noise pollution by 65% by 2050 compared to the year 2000. However, the new technology will likely increase the cost of such aircraft, while fuel consumption may not significantly decrease; thus, it remains to be seen whether airlines will be willing to invest in these aircraft despite higher prices and increased maintenance costs. Furthermore, developing such an aircraft for over 100 passengers and long-haul routes seems unlikely to succeed before 2050.