VIDEO: Hybrid-Electric Aircraft Redefining Mobility

Faced with climate urgency and the ambitious net-zero targets for 2050, the aviation industry is undergoing a profound transformation. Innovations in energy optimization, sustainable fuels, and structural advancements are converging to redefine the sector. From hydrogen propulsion systems to blended-wing-body designs and advanced thermal management technologies, each breakthrough brings aviation closer to a sustainable future.

However, these advances come with complex challenges: stringent safety standards, certification for new architectures, and the integration of emerging technologies. Digital solutions like simulation and digital twins are accelerating innovation cycles, but the future of aviation hinges on close collaboration between established players and agile startups.

Within this landscape, hybrid-electric propulsion emerges as a pivotal solution, combining technological innovation with emission reduction to address the specific challenges of regional air mobility. This videocast, featuring Lucas Marchesini, CTO of Manta Aircraft, and Allan Behrens, Industry Analyst at Taxal, explores the cutting-edge advancements in hybrid-electric propulsion and the future of regional air mobility.

Watch the videocast here > https://siemens-climate-neutral-aircraft.marketing-it.net/flight-into-sustainability/innovating-hybrid-and-electric-aircraft

Highlights of this Video

• eVTOL for regional travel: Manta’s electric vehicles for distances up to 300 km.
• Hybrid propulsion: Bridging to fully electric systems.
• Power-to-weight balance: Overcoming battery limitations for vertical take-off.
• Sustainable air mobility: Steps toward greener aviation.

The strategic integration of hybrid-electric systems

At the core of hybrid-electric propulsion lies a groundbreaking combination of thermal and electric engines. This architecture addresses the limitations of current battery technology, particularly energy density, while delivering performance suited for regional flights.

Electric vertical take-off and landing vehicles (eVTOLs) exemplify this innovation, promising to connect regions over distances of up to 300 kilometers. These aircraft not only meet the demands of sustainable mobility but also open new opportunities in underserved markets.

Hybrid-electric systems offer multiple advantages, providing operational flexibility while reducing fossil fuel consumption. This technology serves as a critical bridge to fully electric or hydrogen solutions, delivering immediate environmental benefits while enabling incremental improvements.

Technical challenges and innovative solutions

The development of hybrid-electric systems is not without its hurdles. Optimizing the power-to-weight ratio remains a critical challenge. Engineers are addressing this through solutions such as ultra-lightweight composite materials and advanced thermal management systems. These innovations not only enhance performance but also improve operational safety.

Noise reduction is another priority, particularly for eVTOLs operating in urban environments. Aerodynamic advancements, coupled with flexible wings that adapt to different flight phases in real time, further enhance the viability of hybrid-electric systems while maximizing efficiency.

Additionally, strict certification requirements pose significant challenges. Integrating complex hybrid technologies demands rigorous validation to meet aerospace standards. Digital tools like Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) play a crucial role here. These tools accelerate the design process, simulate thousands of configurations, and ensure safe, compliant systems.

Collaborations driving innovation

Collaboration between major industry players and agile startups is essential to overcoming the barriers to adopting hybrid-electric technologies. These partnerships foster innovation, accelerate the adoption of sustainable fuels, and streamline the development of certifiable solutions.

Such collaborations also rely on digital tools that reduce development cycles and facilitate the integration of new technologies into existing architectures. This collaborative approach positions hybrid-electric systems as a key enabler of sustainability goals.

A sustainable future for regional aviation

Hybrid-electric propulsion is redefining the landscape of regional air mobility, offering an immediate and scalable solution to reduce carbon emissions. By addressing critical gaps in transportation infrastructure and tackling environmental challenges, these systems promise to transform short-haul aviation.

For further insights,  visit our dedicated website "Vision 2050” or contact us  at regine.bertone@siemens.com.