Safran Electrical & Power will supply the propulsion system for AURA AERO’s INTEGRAL E flight demonstrator, the electric version of the INTEGRAL, and will also conduct electrical architecture studies for ERA, the company's 19-seat electric regional aircraft.
On Thursday (April 7, 2022), Safran Electrical & Power, a global leader in aircraft electrical systems, announced that they have signed an agreement with AURA AERO to supply the electric propulsion system for the company’s INTEGRAL E, an electric version of the INTEGRAL. The two-seat acrobatic capable training aircraft will feature a smart ENGINeUS™ electric motor, capable of delivering over 100 kW, as well as the GENeUSGRID distribution system. The combined propulsion system will produce zero CO2 emissions, while generating less noise than conventional aircraft. The first flight is scheduled for 2022, with deliveries slated for 2023. To date, AURA AERO has received around 60 orders for the INTEGRAL E.
Additionally, Safran Electrical & Power has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to work with AURA AERO to conduct electrical architecture studies for the company’s ERA (Electric Regional Aircraft) model, a 19-seat commercial regional aircraft. The jointly conducted work will also include non-propulsive aspects of the ERA’s electric architecture, which will power other aircraft systems. AURA’s ERA aircraft is scheduled to make its first flight in 2024, with entry into service expected by 2027.
In Thursday’s announcement, Safran Electrical and Power’s General Manager and EVP – Power Division, Hervé Blanc, said,
“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.”
Also commenting on the collaboration, AURA AERO’s Co-Founder & Chief Programs Officer, Wilfried Dufaud, added,
“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.”
Safran is an international high technology Group with operations in aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space. The company’s core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world. With a global presence, Safran has 76,800 team members and reported 2021 revenues of €15.3 billion. The company holds, independently or in partnership, world or regional leaderships positions in the core markets they serve. Safran is listed on the Euronext stock exchange, and is part of the CAC 40 and Euro Stoxx 50 indices.
Source: Safran