Eurocopter has completed testing of its hybrid helicopter, which combines a turboshaft internal combustion engine with an electric motor to further enhance rotary-wing aircraft safety.
At the experimental stages to explore the hybrid concept, the company has utilised a supplemental electric system to increase manoeuvrability of a single-engine helicopter during an autorotation landing when the main engine of the helicopters fails.
Discover B2B Marketing That Performs
Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.
The AS350 hybrid demonstrator, which is equipped with a supplementary electric motor, has its highly compact electric motor and lithium ion polymer battery installed in the centre area of the helicopter.
The company said that in the event of an engine failure, the electric motor provides power to the rotor that allows the pilot to control the helicopter and land safely.
