| |
Safran Electrical & Power, world leader in aircraft electrical systems, and AURA AERO, digital and eco-efficient aircraft manufacturer, have just announced an agreement to work together on the architecture and electric propulsion systems of two aircraft: the INTEGRAL E training aircraft and the ERA (Electric Regional Aircraft).
Safran Electrical & Power will supply the propulsion system for the INTEGRAL E flight demonstrator (the electric version of the INTEGRAL). This is the aerobatic-capable two-seater training aircraft developed by AURA AERO. This prototype will feature a smart ENGINeUS™ electric motor able to deliver more than 100 kW, and the GENeUSGRID distribution and protection system. The whole system will produce zero CO2 emissions and will generate less noise and conventional aircraft. Around sixty or so orders are already expected for the INTEGRAL E. The first flight is scheduled for 2022, and deliveries are slated for 2023.
Safran Electrical & Power has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to work with AURA AERO on conducting the electrical architecture studies for ERA, a 19-seater regional commercial aircraft with electric propulsion. These studies will focus on the high direct voltage propulsive architecture which will deliver the power needed for the electric engines. The jointly-conducted work will also include the “non-propulsive” electrical architecture, used to power the aircraft’s other systems. It is thought that several hundred orders will be placed for AURA AERO. The aircraft is slated to make its first flight in 2024, with entry into commercial service planned for 2027.
“Safran Electrical & Power is extremely proud to be partnering AURA AERO on these two ambitious aircraft programs. In every way, these projects are in line with our strategic aims: they feature breakthrough technologies, have a low-carbon footprint and are electrically powered. This agreement bolsters our position as a key player in the fields of equipment electrification and electric and hybrid propulsion. It also marks two Toulouse-based companies both firmly established in the Occitanie region's industrial fabric working together”, said Hervé Blanc, General Manager & Executive Vice President of the Power division at Safran Electrical & Power.
“This joint project between an aircraft manufacturer and an expert in aeronautical electrical systems is a milestone one that is essential if we are to develop electric aircraft. In 2022, this collaboration will result in the 100% electric INTEGRAL E training aircraft taking to the skies, which will be EASA & FAA certified in 2023. As part of the joint aim to industrialize production of electric aircraft, Safran is providing its rare expertise in high-voltage networks, which is needed for the INTEGRAL E and ERA architectures. This collaboration is evidence of our shared determination to decarbonize the aviation sector", added Wilfried Dufaud, Co-Founder & Chief Programs Officer of AURA AERO.
About Safran
Safran (safran-group.com) is an international high-technology group, operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space markets. Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world, where air transport is more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Safran has a global presence, with 76,800 employees and sales of 15.3 billion euros in 2021, and holds, alone or in partnership, world or regional leadership positions in its core markets.
Safran Electrical & Power is one of the world's leaders in aircraft electrical systems. The company is a key player in equipment electrification and in the electric and hybrid propulsion sector. It has 11,500 employees across 13 different countries.
About AURA AERO
AURA AERO (aura-aero.com), the first digital and eco-efficient aeronautical manufacturer, industrializes disruptive technologies for the aviation of tomorrow, by combining the best of the aeronautical industry and digital technologies. The company designs and manufactures aircraft with unrivalled efficiency, on the growing market of eco-efficient and low-carbon emission vehicles. Founded in 2018, AURA AERO is based in Toulouse-Francazal and employs 100 people.
Press contact: Caroline Brown - CB Relations Presse
P: + 33(0)6 22 08 86 23 - E: caroline.brown.rp[.]gmail.com.
|
melodie.susini[.]safrangroup.com 
