Thu, Jan 10, 2019
Aircraft Is The First Application Of The Company's Hybrid-Electric Propulsion System
The first application of the Safran Hybrid-Electric Propulsion System (HEPS), the Bell Nexus, was officially unveiled this week at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. The propulsion solution of this multi-rotor vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft is capable of producing more than 600 kWe power. During ground tests last June the system produced 100 kWe and further tests will be carried out next year.
"This partnership with Bell in the on-demand mobility sector is a strategic opportunity for Safran" said Jean-Baptiste Jarin, Safran Helicopter Engines Vice President, Hybrid Propulsion System Program. "Nexus is the first of a new breed of aircraft, it opens the doors to new markets and new missions. Fully committed to these challenges and sharing a common vision with Bell, we now look forward to seeing it fly".
"Bell is excited to unveil the Bell Nexus at CES and to share this exciting time with our partners", says Bell's Scott Drennan, Vice President of Innovation. "The Bell Nexus delivers a nexus of transport and technology, comfort and convenience. "We look forward to continuing the development of technology with Safran to bring this nexus to life."
HEPS works by distributing thermal and/or electrical energy, depending on the phase of flight, to multiple rotors. It comprises three subsystems: electric generation that relies on a turbo-generator and batteries, electric power management and the electric motors that generate lift and propulsion.
Hybrid-electric propulsion solutions being explored by Safran teams are the most efficient way to enable multi-rotor VTOL aircraft to meet future safety, emission and affordability standards.
By 2025, Safran is committed to becoming the market leader in HEPS technology.
(Image provided with Safran news release)
More News
“This recognition was evident during the TBMOPA Annual Convention, where owners and operators clearly expressed their satisfaction with our focus on customer service, and enc>[...]
Overhead Maneuver A series of predetermined maneuvers prescribed for aircraft (often in formation) for entry into the visual flight rules (VFR) traffic pattern and to proceed to a >[...]
Aero Linx: Glenn H. Curtiss Museum The Glenn H. Curtiss Museum, bearing the name of Hammondsport’s favorite son, is located on State Route 54, one half mile south of the vill>[...]
The Flight Instructor Noticed Some Engine Roughness And Diverted Toward Westwinds Airport On November 2, 2025, about 1630 mountain standard time, an experimental amateur-built Just>[...]
From 2014 (YouTube Edition) -- Disclaimer: No Matter What He Tells You, Tom Is Not A Certified Firefighting Pilot While at EAA AirVenture 2014, ANN News Editor, Tom Patton checked >[...]
Aero-News: Quote of the Day (11.20.25)
See All