Rolls-Royce to Test New Engine for Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing Aircraft

Rolls-Royce, a leading provider of power and propulsion systems for advanced air mobility, is set to commence testing a new engine designed to power hybrid-electric flight. The engine is part of a turbogenerator system that can provide on-board power for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft used in urban air mobility and regional commuter aircraft with seating capacity of up to 19.

The new engine incorporates recent technological advancements to significantly enhance the efficiency of small gas turbines. It can be utilized in both serial and parallel hybrid applications, allowing for seamless switching between power sources during flight. Additionally, the engine is capable of running on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), contributing to emissions reduction.

Olaf Otto, President of Electrical at Rolls-Royce, expressed excitement about the testing of the new engine, emphasizing its potential to extend the range of electric flight and enable more passengers to travel on low- to net-zero-emissions aircraft.

The testing will be conducted at Rolls-Royce’s modified facility in Dahlewitz, Germany, which has been specifically adapted for the new engine. This testing phase aims to verify the engine’s technical attributes and performance.

Rolls-Royce is actively developing comprehensive power and propulsion systems for all-electric and hybrid-electric applications. These systems incorporate cutting-edge technology, covering power generation, energy storage, power electronics, control systems, and electric motors.

In addition, Rolls-Royce has unveiled an electric flying concept vehicle capable of vertical takeoff and landing. In the future, this vehicle could potentially be powered by the turbogenerator system developed by Rolls-Royce.