Seattle-based Zunum Aero has teamed up with French engine maker Safran Helicopter Engines to supply the hybrid electric engine needed for its ZA10 people mover that is expected to work as a Toyota Prius of the skies, albeit one that can transport a lot more people. Zunum announced the idea last year and has made progress toward first flight, expected as soon as next year.
Zunum Aero Chooses Safran Engine for Hybrid Electric Aircraft
Key Takeaways:
- Zunum Aero has partnered with Safran Helicopter Engines to develop the Ardiden 3Z, a hybrid-electric engine derived from Safran’s Ardiden series.
- This new hybrid-electric powerplant for Zunum's ZA10 aircraft aims to reduce fuel burn and operating costs by 60 to 80 percent compared to conventional airplanes.
- The ZA10 aircraft is designed to transport 12 people approximately 700 miles at speeds nearing 300 knots, utilizing short runways.
- Testing of the hybrid-electric system has begun, with first flight anticipated in 2019, and JetSuite has committed to purchasing up to 100 aircraft as a launch customer.
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