Last updated on September 12th, 2023 at 12:19 pm
Equipmake, a prominent UK-based engineering specialist in electrification products, has announced a groundbreaking production technology partnership with H55, a leading electric aerospace propulsion company. This collaboration aims to develop and produce certified Electric Propulsion Systems (EPS) for electric aircraft, marking a significant step forward in the advancement of electric aviation technology.
The partnership between Equipmake and H55 builds upon their existing collaboration, which involved Equipmake supplying advanced electric motors to support the development of H55's Electric Propulsion System. Under the new agreement, Equipmake will provide world-class motors based on H55 specifications, while H55 will supply the certified motor controller. The initial focus will be on commercializing a 100kW fully certified EPS, with plans for certification completion by the end of 2024.
The decision to form this partnership was driven by Equipmake's expertise in advanced electrification technology and rapid manufacturing. Equipmake's lightweight, power-dense, and high-performance electric motors, featuring a proprietary rotor design utilizing Halbach array technology, have been chosen for their exceptional capabilities. These motors have already been successfully used in prototype electric aircraft.
One of the key projects that will benefit from this collaboration is the customer program between H55 and BRM AERO, an aircraft manufacturer. The motors supplied by Equipmake will be utilized in the development of the Bristell B23 Energic aircraft, a two-seater electric trainer designed for flight schools and pilot training. This partnership will enable the project to transition from prototype development to full-scale manufacturing, providing a highly advanced electric training aircraft.
These planes aim to carry a 190kg payload form one hour – with an additional 30 minutes of back-up battery. Speeds range from 60 to 125mph and the 49kWh battery can be recharged on the ground in 7 hours for as little as £6 in certain locations (cheap rate/off peak).
While the range/speed offered with these early craft are definitely more suited to training scenarios, the idea that you can travel close to 125 miles in one how for £6 in ‘fuel', certainly seems a little more ‘real world practical' than some of the ideas we've heard.
In much the same way that it took the world more than a decade to put its faith in solid state drive technology, over traditional mechanical hard drives in the tech sector – so we anticipate many years of distrust for next-gen electric propulsion. However, at some point soon, the world will be ready for the transition – at least in certain market segments. Rolls Royce is presently developing some really fast EV plane options – so innovation is all around.
Expressing his delight at the expanded partnership, Ian Foley, CEO of Equipmake, emphasized the company's commitment to developing certified electric propulsion systems. Foley stated, “This will result in a highly advanced electric two-seater training aircraft,” highlighting the innovative nature of the project and its potential to revolutionize electric aviation.
André Borschberg, Executive Chairman of H55, also expressed his satisfaction with the collaboration, noting the complementary nature of the partnership. He acknowledged the value of Equipmake's expertise in motor design and serial production, which, combined with H55's propulsion and battery know-how, creates a solid foundation for successful collaboration.
Equipmake has built a strong reputation as an engineering specialist in advanced EV technology, providing electrification solutions to various industries, including automotive, aerospace, bus, coach, marine, mining, and off-highway sectors. Led by former F1 engineer Ian Foley, the company offers a range of electrification solutions, from cutting-edge electric motors to complete EV powertrains, and has a track record of successful project execution within tight timelines.
H55, based in Switzerland, specializes in electric propulsion solutions and battery systems for aircraft. The company's experience includes developing, integrating, and flight-testing electric propulsion systems for the Solar Impulse, the first solar-powered electric airplane to complete a circumnavigation of the globe. H55's expertise and track record in developing electric aircraft make them a valuable partner in this collaboration.
The new production technology partnership between Equipmake and H55 represents a significant milestone in the advancement of electric aviation. With their combined expertise, these companies are poised to develop cutting-edge certified Electric Propulsion Systems, paving the way for a future where electric aircraft play a prominent role in aviation. The collaboration holds great promise for the electrification of the aerospace industry and showcases the continuous innovation and progress being made in the field of sustainable aviation.
Financially, Equipmake has a business plan focused on building flexible, reliable electric buses for Latin America, India and York. When it comes to grabbing media attention, then its work on the next-gen ‘Atom' certainly has a lot more visual appeal. Historically, the decision to back Equipmake with Government money – is likely to go down as Liz Truss' best decision ever.
