RTX CorporationRTX subsidiary Collins Aerospace completed successful hybrid-electric powertrain testing for Clean Aviation SWITCH project, advancing technology for future aircraft.
Collins Aerospace, an RTX business, has completed integrated lab testing for the European Union's Clean Aviation SWITCH project at The Grid, its advanced electric power systems lab in Rockford, Illinois. The tested hybrid-electric powertrain subsystems, which successfully operated with simulated aircraft and engine systems, are now headed to Airbus's laboratories for further aircraft-level integration testing, including work on aircraft design, battery interfacing and energy-management systems. SWITCH aims to improve engine efficiency for future short- and medium-range aircraft by integrating hybrid-electric systems on a Pratt & Whitney GTF engine, including two Collins megawatt-class motor generators and controllers. Next, The Grid will support the Airbus-led LEIA project, where Collins is technical lead for energy sources, advancing components and aircraft systems for future hybrid-electric short- and medium-range aircraft. Both SWITCH and LEIA are part of the Clean Aviation Joint Undertaking, a European public-private partnership with a budget of €4.1 billion, and build on ongoing collaboration between Collins and several partners across multiple Clean Aviation projects.
RTX CorporationRTX subsidiary Collins Aerospace completed successful hybrid-electric powertrain testing for Clean Aviation SWITCH project, advancing technology for future aircraft.
Airbus Group SEAirbus will receive the tested subsystems for further aircraft-level integration, supporting its hybrid-electric aircraft development.