Boeing and the University of Cambridge Created This Futuristic Aircraft
Rahul Kalvapalle — December 29, 2014 — Autos
Researchers from the University of Cambridge have teamed up with Boeing to test the world's first hybrid-electric aircraft, capable of using 30% less fuel than gas-only planes. While we're all becoming fairly familiar with hybrid cars, hybrid airplanes still only exist in our imaginations -- until now.
This single-seat aircraft is powered by a Honda 4-stroke piston engine and a custom-built electric motor and generator. The power sources are paired together so that either one can be used to drive the propeller. During periods of high power requirement such as take-off, the airplane is capable of using both the engine and motor to drive its propeller.
This innovative hybrid-electric aircraft underwent its test run at the Sywell Aerodrome near Northampton in the UL. It was made to carry out a series of 'hop' flights on the runway, before then demonstrating its ability to perform longer flights at an altitude over 457 meters. Upcoming tests are set to focus on improving fuel economy and optimizing performance.
This single-seat aircraft is powered by a Honda 4-stroke piston engine and a custom-built electric motor and generator. The power sources are paired together so that either one can be used to drive the propeller. During periods of high power requirement such as take-off, the airplane is capable of using both the engine and motor to drive its propeller.
This innovative hybrid-electric aircraft underwent its test run at the Sywell Aerodrome near Northampton in the UL. It was made to carry out a series of 'hop' flights on the runway, before then demonstrating its ability to perform longer flights at an altitude over 457 meters. Upcoming tests are set to focus on improving fuel economy and optimizing performance.
Trend Themes
1. Hybrid-electric Airplanes - Hybrid electric airplanes are a disruptive innovation that can change the aviation industry by significantly reducing fuel consumption and increasing sustainability.
2. Electric Propulsion - Electric propulsion is a trend that could revolutionize transportation industries, including aviation, by providing more efficient and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional fossil fuel-powered engines.
3. Green Aviation - Green aviation is a trend that can help the aviation industry reduce its carbon footprint and become more sustainable through the use of hybrid-electric technologies, advanced materials, and innovative design solutions.
Industry Implications
1. Aviation - Hybrid-electric airplanes represent a significant opportunity for the aviation industry to lower operational costs, reduce emissions, and improve air travel sustainability.
2. Automotive - The development of hybrid-electric airplanes could be leveraged to create new opportunities for the automotive industry to expand into the aviation sector and develop advanced propulsion technologies for transportation.
3. Renewable Energy - The trend towards green aviation and hybrid-electric propulsion creates opportunities for the renewable energy industry to play a pivotal role in powering the aviation industry with sustainable energy solutions, such as solar, wind, or biofuels.
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