Based on the targets laid out in the European Commission report Flightpath 2050 – Europe’s Vision for Aviation, EADS has created a hybrid electric propulsion system that could dramatically reduce fuel consumption, emissions, and noise.
The EC’s 2050 report calls for a 75% reduction in CO2 emissions, a 90% reduction in NO emissions and a 65% reduction in noise pollution all by the year 2050. To meet these demands, EADS’ has introduced its new E-Thrust engine. Created in partnership with Rolls Royce, EADS intends for the E-Thrust to be a “distributed propulsion” system that will be used in its larger eConcept aircraft vision.
According to EADS, a number of E-Thrust engines would be distributed along the length of the eConcept’s wings, powered by a central battery system and a backup onboard gas engine.
While a number of advances are required before EADS’ E-Thurst and eConcept ideas will be ready for test flight, the company emphasized how critical advances in superconducting technology will be for the future of hybrid and all electric systems.
EADS believes that their E-Thrust concept is a first step towards an all-electric aviation propulsion system. When a system like that will ever be commercially viable is anyone’s guess, but maybe we’ll see a concept proposal at next year’s Paris Air Show.
Watch a Video About the E-Thrust Concept:
Images & Video Courtesy of EADS & TechnologicVehicles