GE Aerospace has demonstrated that its hybrid-electric aircraft can climb above 30,000 feet, near the typical cruising altitude of commercial aircraft.
A hybrid-electric engine system combines an electric powertrain with a traditional gas turbine that drives power efficiencies during different phases of flight.
While electric vehicles are becoming more commonplace on the ground, electric aircraft are faced with a number of unique challenges before they can be commercialised. The single biggest technical hurdle is the stark difference in energy density between jet fuel and batteries. This requirement for heavy batteries on electric aircraft significantly reduces their range and passenger payload.
But by combining the high energy density of liquid fuel with the instant torque and efficiency of electric motors, hybrid systems bridge the gap between heavy traditional jets and current battery limitations.
The team from GE Aerospace modified a Saab 340B to incorporate the hybrid engine system...