Airbus is challenging itself on a new invention. The European planemaker is currently discussing hybrid-electric aircraft development. Airbus expects the breakthrough could help reduce jetliner emission.
More about the hybrid-electric aircraft project
Airbus is very much concerned with million tonnes of equivalent CO2 emissions produced by current-generation jet. Previously, Airbus has been enforcing the shift into hydrogen as its airplanes’ future energy source. The company even pledged to come up with the first hydrogen-powered commercial plane in 2035, Reuters reports. Apparently, Airbus has another plan in hands: hybrid-electric aircraft.
Quoted from Reuters, Airbus revealed that “the company’s work in electric flight has laid the groundwork for our future concept of zero-emission commercial aircraft.” Airbus also said that the company is “now exploring a variety of hybrid-electric and hydrogen technology options”.
The idea of using hydrogen as airplanes’ energy sources has been receiving critics from several experts. Some suggests that hydrogen might only be applicable for relatively small planes. Furthermore, there will be more aspects to think about, such as its volume and the need for a new infrastructure. Airbus’ rival, Boeing, has questioned the idea.
Airbus: project ongoing
Several industry sources have started to predict which aircraft might be applicable to the new project. Currently, the biggest bet goes to the best selling 150-seat A320. Suspected to enter service in the 2030s, the airplane will likely be equipped with hybrid-electric power. Hydrogen might be able to power such large airplanes a bit later.
Industry officials also told Reuters that all the team involved in the project is currently doing the best to realize the idea. As quoted from Reuters, “engine makers are currently exploring open-rotor engines with visible blades using a mixture of traditional turbines and electric propulsion for future replacements to the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737”.
Despite all the challenges that Airbus may face upon the project development, an Airbus spokesman said, “only a combination of technologies, including hydrogen, will help us aim for zero-emission.” Accordingly, Chief Executive Guillaume Faury has also stimulated the industry to delve deeper into the research and redefining operations.
Read also: Airbus: Zero-Emission Planes Under Construction
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