BAE Systems and Heart Aerospace will collaborate to define the battery system used for Heart’s ES-30 regional electric aircraft. The battery system will be the first of its kind to be integrated into an electric conventional takeoff and landing (eCTOL) regional aircraft.
The ES-30 aircraft, which has a total of 230 orders and 100 options, will be powered by four electric motors and has an all-electric range of 200 kilometres, an extended reserve hybrid range of 400 kilometres with 30 passengers as well as an ability to fly up to 800 kilometres with 25 passengers.
“Our industry-leading solution builds on decades of expertise delivering technologies and systems needed to progress sustainable transportation,” said Ehtisham Siddiqui, Vice President and General Manager of Controls and Avionics Solutions, BAE Systems. “We are delighted to collaborate with Heart Aerospace on the innovative battery system for its electric airplane.”
The programme, taking place at BAE Systems’ facility in Endicott, New York, will also provide the ES-30 with a cost-effective and scalable upgrade path as future battery technology matures. The battery upgrade roadmap allows for increased usable energy at the same weight, providing longer flight durations and expanded route options.
“BAE Systems’ extensive experience in developing batteries for heavy-duty ground applications, and their experience in developing safety critical control systems for aerospace, make them an ideal partner in this important next step for the ES-30 and for the aviation industry,” added Sofia Graflund, Chief Operating Officer, Heart Aerospace, “we look forward to decarbonising air travel together.”
Image: Heart Aerospace ES-30
