Revolutionary Rolls-Royce Mini Engine Poised to Spark the Future of Hybrid-Electric Aviation
Rolls-Royce has unveiled its new compact gas turbine, tailored specifically for hybrid-electric aviation, poised to commence testing. This engine is part of an innovative turbogenerator system designed for the Advanced Air Mobility sector, encompassing electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for Urban Air Mobility and commuter aircraft accommodating up to 19 passengers.
The turbogenerator system will enhance the Rolls-Royce Electrical propulsion lineup by providing an on-board energy source with scalable power outputs ranging from 500kW to 1200kW. This flexibility allows for extended range using sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and, eventually, hydrogen combustion as it becomes commercially viable. This advancement will enable the exploration of new, longer routes that electric battery-powered aircraft cannot currently support.
Olaf Otto, President – Electrical, remarked:
“Rolls-Royce aims to be the premier supplier of all-electric and hybrid-electric power and propulsion systems for Advanced Air Mobility. The Pass-To-Test (PTT) of our cutting-edge small engine that will drive our turbogenerator system marks a significant leap forward. This innovation will allow our clients to broaden the routes that electric aviation can facilitate, meaning more passengers can travel longer distances on low to net-zero emissions aircraft.”
The progression of the turbogenerator system merges Rolls-Royce’s expertise in electrical and gas turbine technologies. This new combustion engine leverages recent technological advancements to achieve a transformative increase in the efficiency of small gas turbines. The turbogenerator can function in either serial or parallel hybrid setups, making it ideal for recharging batteries while also supplying power directly to electrical propulsion units. This capability enables aircraft to alternate between energy sources during flight. The research and development of this pioneering technology is partially supported by the German Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action.
