Rolls-Royce Electric Aircraft Completes First Flight

Rolls-Royce Achieves Electric Flight Milestone

Rolls-Royce, renowned for its aircraft jet engines, has successfully completed the first flight of an all-electric airplane. The aircraft, named “Spirit of Innovation,” undertook a 15-minute flight. This event signifies the commencement of a comprehensive flight-testing program.

During this phase, the company intends to gather crucial data regarding the aircraft’s electrical power and propulsion capabilities. Rolls-Royce highlighted that the single-seat aircraft incorporates “the most power-dense battery pack ever assembled for an aircraft.”

Key Aircraft Specifications

The aircraft is powered by a 6,000-cell battery pack coupled with a three-motor powertrain. Currently, this system generates 400kW, which translates to over 500 horsepower. Rolls-Royce anticipates the aircraft will eventually reach speeds exceeding 300 MPH.

This initial flight occurred approximately one year after the originally planned launch date and six months following extensive taxi testing. The company is concurrently engaged in the development of an air taxi in collaboration with Tecnam.

Expanding Electric Aviation Initiatives

The goal of this partnership is to produce a fully electric passenger aircraft tailored for the commuter market. Rolls-Royce has previously collaborated with both Siemens and Airbus on alternative electric aircraft concepts.

The exploration of electric airplanes by aircraft manufacturers has been ongoing for several years. This is driven by the increasing contribution of air travel and cargo to global greenhouse gas emissions.

Challenges of Electric Flight

The World Wildlife Foundation identifies air travel as “currently the most carbon intensive activity an individual can make.” However, weight presents a significant challenge for airplanes compared to automobiles.

For instance, Ford’s electric Lightning pickup truck is 1,800 pounds heavier than its gasoline counterpart, with a reduced range. Adding 1,800 pounds to a Cessna 206 Turbo Stationair would surpass its useful load capacity by 500 pounds, preventing takeoff.

Funding and Future Implications

The project received 50% of its funding from the Aerospace Technology Institute and the UK government. The ultimate objective is to facilitate the creation of all-electric passenger planes.

Rolls-Royce CEO Warren East stated that this achievement extends beyond simply setting a world record. He emphasized the potential of the advanced battery and propulsion technology for the Urban Air Mobility market and its contribution to achieving “jet zero.”

This article was originally published on Engadget.