EcoPulse
EcoPulse is a distributed hybrid-propulsion demonstrator aircraft developed in partnership with Daher and Safran. It took its first flight on 29 November 2023. Airbus is contributing battery technology and aerodynamic modelling to this project, which aims to leverage the benefits of distributed propulsion to improve aircraft performance.
The untapped potential of distributed propulsion
EcoPulse focuses on evaluating the benefits of distributed propulsion and its possible integration on future aircraft. Distributed propulsion is a system that works by breaking down thrust generation among many small engines distributed along the span.
By minimising the power of each propulsor and, as a result, their mass, distributed propulsion could unlock a range of possibilities for improved aircraft performance. This includes:
- Improved cruising, take-off and landing performance
- Reduced cabin noise due to better synchronisation between several propellers
- Increased energy savings thanks to reduced tail surface and better aircraft control
Technical specifications
Modelling & Simulation
- Modelling of the overall aircraft behaviour
- Comparison with flight test data for more accurate simulations
Acoustics
- Cabin and external noise measurements for better predictions and recommendations
High Voltage Battery
- Design and development of the Li-ion battery for the demonstrator
- Ground and Flight testing for performance analysis
Distributed Thrust & Aircraft Control
- Development of the flight control laws integrating thrust and asymmetric thrust management
- Aircraft handling qualities assessment
Aerodynamics & Performance
- Distributed electric propulsion aerodynamic design and associated aircraft performance analysis during flight campaign
A cross-industry collaboration
EcoPulse is based on a modified Daher TBM 900 turboprop aircraft. The standard engine and propeller systems are augmented by six wing-mounted propellers, each of which is driven by a 50-kW Safran ENGINeUS electric engine powered by batteries or a 100-kW auxiliary power unit.
The demonstrator is developed in partnership with Daher and Safran. The partners contribute the following:
Airbus
- Development of a high-energy-density battery to be used as an electric source for the e-Propellers
- Aerodynamic and acoustic integration of the distributed-propulsion system
- Development of a Flight Control Computer system
Daher
- Integration of the components provided by Airbus and Safran into the airframe
- Flight and airworthiness testing
- Overall results analysis coordination
Safran
- Distributed hybrid-propulsion system integration (excluding batteries)
The project is also supported by DGAC (the French Civil Aviation Authority).
Bringing alternative propulsion to future aircraft
The EcoPuls demonstrator project is a part of Airbus’ decarbonisation roadmap, which focuses on developing a mix of solutions to support the transition to low-carbon aviation.
Other key project objectives include the following:
- To identify the methods, tools and outcomes needed for the design of a distributed-propulsion aircraft
- To flight-test a new high-voltage-battery configuration and support flight clearance
- To improve alternative-propulsion simulation models for use on larger aircraft
- To evaluate the design’s aerodynamic gains (reducing wing surface area and wingtip marginal vortices for less drag)
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