Robinson Helicopter and propulsion system innovator MagniX have agreed to jointly develop a battery-electric powertrain for the R66 rotorcraft. The companies announced their plans today at EAA AirVenture, saying they aim to conduct a first flight with the demonstrator system in late 2026.
Washington-based MagniX will provide a fully integrated electric powertrain developed for helicopters. This will use the lightweight, high-speed HeliStorm engines that it unveiled earlier this year. “We have demonstrated the clear cost, noise, and safety benefits of MagniX’s fully-integrated electric powertrains,” said MagniX chief technology officer Riona Armesmith.
In 2022, MagniX provided a propulsion system for the first flight of a retrofitted Robinson R44 helicopter. In March 2025, the company was involved in what it said was the world’s first piloted flight of a hydrogen-electric helicopter.
“MagniX’s proven experience in electric propulsion and previous experience with the R44 makes them the right partner to collaborate on alternative powerplant solutions,” said Robinson president and CEO David Smith. “This agreement allows us to develop market-leading, zero-emission solutions that meet the needs of many critical mission types.”
According to Robinson, there are more than 1,500 R66s in service worldwide. The California-based manufacturer is now eager to offer customers an alternative to the R66’s standard Rolls-Royce RR300 turboshaft engine.