The EcoPulse demonstrator, developed by Daher, Safran, and Airbus, successfully completed its first flight in hybrid-electric mode. The aircraft, equipped with ePropellers powered by a battery and a turbogenerator, took to the skies from Tarbes Airport on November 29 for a 100-minute test flight.
Throughout the flight, the crew activated the electric propellers and meticulously examined the proper functioning of the flight control computer, high-voltage battery, distributed electric propulsion, and hybrid electric turbogenerator.
Eric Dalbiès, Executive Vice President of Strategy and Chief Technology Officer at Safran, stated regarding this achievement, «This confirms that this propulsion system works in flight, paving the way for a more sustainable aviation.» These statements were echoed by Sabine Klauke, Chief Technical Officer at Airbus. «This is a significant milestone for the industry. We are proud to have collaborated on our new battery system.»
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The EcoPulse prototype was presented at the Paris Air Show in 2019. Its goal is to evaluate the operational advantages of integrating hybrid-electric propulsion. This architecture allows a single electrical source to power various motors distributed throughout the aircraft.
Built on a TBM manufactured by Daher, the EcoPulse features six integrated electric thrusters supplied by Safran, distributed along the wings. The propulsion system incorporates an electric generator driven by a gas turbine. The batteries are of high energy density and supplied by Airbus. At the core of this architecture is a Power Distribution and Rectification Unit (PDRU), along with high-voltage power harnesses, both provided by Safran.
The 800-volt battery designed by Airbus can supply up to 350 kilowatts of power. The European manufacturer also developed the flight control computer that enables aircraft maneuvers using the ePropellers.
