Safran Electrical & Power will supply propulsion systems for a family of new fixed-wing electric aircraft under development by French start-up Aura Aero. In an April 7 announcement, the companies said the partnership covers the initial Integral E light aircraft and the planned 19-seat Electric Regional Aircraft (ERA).
Aura Aero’s two-seat Integral E aerobatic trainer will feature Safran’s smart EngineUs electric motor, capable of generating more than 100 kW, and the GeneUsGrid distribution and protection system. The manufacturer expects the prototype to fly for the first time later in 2022 and anticipates the first deliveries in 2023.
French aviation authorities last November issued Part 21G approval to Aura Aero, marking the first step toward production of its Integral family of light aircraft. The authorization also cleared the company to advance its longer-term goal to develop the ERA model.
Under a memorandum of understanding, aircraft engines and systems group Safran will also work with the Auro Aero engineering team on the electrical architecture studies for the hybrid-electric ERA. The studies will center on the high direct voltage propulsive architecture to deliver the power needed for the electric engines. The work will also include the “non propulsive” electrical architecture used to power the aircraft’s other systems. Read more
