E-Fan X is a major milestone on Airbus’ decarbonisation journey. We remain fully committed to our decarbonisation ambitions and continue to explore the disruptive technologies required to achieve them over the next decade.
A complex hybrid-electric flight demonstrator
In 2017, we launched the E-Fan X demonstrator with the ambition to test the technologies that would help decarbonise our skies. In the test aircraft, one of the four jet engines was slated to be replaced by a 2MW electric motor.
Today, we take great pride in knowing this first-of-its-kind demonstrator has been a real game-changer for the aviation industry and a key step-change in our ambition to help decarbonise aviation.
Key learnings on future flight
In less than three years, E-Fan X successfully achieved its three main initial goals:
Launching and testing the possibilities – and limitations – of a serial hybrid-electric propulsion system in a demonstrator aircraft, the first of its kind in the world,
Gaining invaluable insights to develop a more focused roadmap on how to progress on our ambitious decarbonisation commitments,
Laying a foundation for the future industry-wide adoption and regulatory acceptance of alternative-propulsion commercial aircraft.
Airbus and Rolls-Royce made the joint decision to bring the E-Fan X demonstrator to an end in April 2020. We continue to explore new pathways for disruptive CO2 reduction and are leveraging the knowledge gained through E-Fan X to do so.
Technical specifications
ELECTRICAL SUPPLY
3000V DC electrical distribution
GENERATOR
Power generation system
ENGINE
One of four jet engines is replaced with an electric motor
At Airbus we believe hybrid-electric power can reduce aircraft CO2 emissions by up to 5%. That figure could be as high as 10% for helicopters, generally lighter than fixed-wing aircraft. Hybridisation is a big step in the aerospace sector’s decarbonisation journey and Airbus is leading a cross-industry effort to make it happen.
Our decarbonisation journey continues: looking beyond E-Fan X
Aviation connects and unites people. As people discovered the magic of flight, serving this fundamental need drove a steep growth in air travel. This increase led us to explore innovative technologies to ensure that future generations can enjoy flying as much as we do.
The E-Fan X puts its aerodynamic design to the test
Wind tunnel testing is a critical milestone for any aircraft. For the E-Fan X, the test programme has offered invaluable insight into the hybrid-electric demonstrator’s aerodynamic design, low-speed performance and handling qualities in preparation for its first flight in 2021.