Latest News | 4 March 2021
Rolls-Royce moves a step closer to its electric dream
Rolls-Royce has moved another important step towards its goal of creating the world’s fastest all-electric plane.
The engineering giant, which has its civil aerospace division in Derby, has said its Spirit of Innovation aircraft could take to the air this spring after successfully completing its first runway taxiing tests.
The firm reported that the plane had powered along a runway propelled by its 500hp (or 400kw) electric powertrain and new battery technology.
Rolls-Royce said that taxiing is a critical test of the integration of the aircraft’s propulsion system, ahead of actual flight-testing.
The high speed, energy-efficient plane is being developed under the ACCEL – or Accelerating the Electrification of Flight – programme.
Rob Watson, director of Rolls-Royce Electrical, said: “Electrification of flight is an important part of our sustainability strategy as we aim for net zero carbon by 2050.
“Taxiing of the ‘Spirit of Innovation’ is an incredible milestone for the ACCEL team as we progress to first flight and the world-record attempt later this year.
“For the first time, the plane propelled itself forward using the power from an advanced battery and propulsion system that is ground-breaking in terms of electrical technology.
“This system and the capabilities being developed will help position Rolls-Royce as a technology leader offering power systems to the Urban Air Mobility market.”
Rolls-Royce will use the technology to create products including motors, power electronics and batteries, which can be used in general aerospace and small commuter aircraft.
They could even be used to power “air-taxis”, which could one day help ease road congestion in cities and reduce journey times.
Half of the funding for the project is coming from the Aerospace Technology Institute, in partnership with the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy and Innovate UK.
Minister for Business Paul Scully said: “Set to be the world’s fastest electric plane, this pioneering aircraft highlights the value of close collaboration between industry and government.
“The UK is committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
“Through government grants for research and development, we’re championing innovation in the aerospace sector to meet this ambitious target as we build back greener from the pandemic.”
