Safran Turbogenerator Will Power Electra Hybrid Aircraft

Safran Helicopter Engines will supply its TG600 turbogenerator as a key element in Electra’s in-development EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft. The 600-kilowatt generator, which is based on Safran’s Arrano turboshaft, will operate in conjunction with the Evolito electric motors that Electra selected last year.

The companies announced their partnership on Wednesday, building on an earlier memorandum of understanding, with Electra agreeing to buy an initial 250 examples of the TG600. The turbogenerator combines a gas turbine with a pair of GENeUs electric generators made by Safran’s Electrical & Power business unit.

Earlier this month, Safran Helicopter Engines carried out its first bench test on the TG600 at its facility in Bordes, France. This turbogenerator is being prepared for the start of flight testing with the EL9, which is expected in 2027.

On July 10, the FAA granted Electra the G-1 issue paper that establishes the certification basis for the nine-passenger EL9 aircraft as the company works toward completing Part 23 type certification by the end of 2029. Electra applied for the issue paper seven months ago and has now established the regulatory foundation for technologies including the hybrid-electric propulsion system, its blown-lift wing for takeoffs and landings in just 150 feet, and fly-by-wire controls.

According to Electra, the EL9 will enable new air routes that could replace thousands of road journeys in markets including the U.S. The Virginia-based company’s recent Direct Aviation Market Outlook identified potential demand for between 12,000 and 16,000 aircraft in this regional air service sector over the next 10 years.