The aviation industry is undergoing a seemingly silent revolution that may have a massive impact in the nearest future. Several aircraft manufacturers are exploring the huge benefits of electric engines in their operations and Rolls-Royce has joined this growing class. The company has just completed the maiden voyage of its all-electric aircraft.
The Rolls-Royce all-electric aircraft is aptly named Spirit of Innovation, completed its maiden 15-minute voyage, thus signposting the beginning of an intensive flight testing phase for the company that affords it to log important performance data on the aircraft. The main focus of the testing will be on the Spirit of Innovation’s electrical and propulsion system, according to Rolls-Royce.
The Spirit of Innovation is a one-seat airplane that has, in Rolls-Royce’s view, the most power-dense battery pack ever assembled for any aircraft. The aircraft is powered by a 6000 cell battery pack which delivers about 500HP with a three-motor powertrain. The aircraft, according to Rolls-Royce will have a top speed in the range of 300 miles per hour.
Rolls-Royce has made significant progress in the development of this aircraft despite some challenges that led to missing the initial target of 2020 for the maiden flight of the Spirit of Innovation. The aircraft also underwent successful ground testing about six months back through the taxi trials. The company is also working at developing an air taxi in partnership with Tecnam, as it pursues its objective of delivering all-electric aircraft for the commuter market.
The expected benefits in the ultimate transition of air travel to electric-powered aircraft are massive, as it will cut down significantly the greenhouse emission attributed to air travel. However, some fundamental challenges still need to be overcome including finding the right balance and weight that will provide optimal performance of such electric aircraft. It is known that electric vehicles are much heavier than gas-powered cars, and this is also applicable to aircraft.
The collaborative engagement for the Spirit of Innovation’s maiden flight also includes The UK government and Aerospace Technology Institute which provided funding. Even though we may be several years away from a commercial all-electric flight, this milestone is a move in the right direction.
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