10 November, 2021

Wright Electric Announces Details of Powertrain Development for the Wright Spirit Aircraft


Wright has taken another key step in the development of the world’s first zero-emissions regional jet. On the heels of the Wright Spirit launch announcement, the company has announced the launch of the Joint Technical Assessment Phase (JTAP). The JTAP will build on the work Wright has performed on its megawatt-class propulsion system and with partners.


“The JTAP is an important phase in an aircraft development program,” says Jeff Engler, CEO of Wright Electric. “The role of the JTAP is to define a firm system architecture and operations plan for the megawatt-class powertrain.”

Key deliverables of the JTAP include:

Determining the ultimate architecture, aircraft and technology path for the development aircraft and market entry.
Development & test facilities and location.
Evaluation of the system architecture including selection of energy storage and generation solutions for the power system.
Technical Readiness Level (TRL) of critical path components and working with Wright's Airline Advisory Board (AAB) to determine the best fit for their market requirements.
The JTAP team includes some of the most innovative names in zero-emissions technology including Honeywell and EaglePicher. “Wright is proud of the advances we have made with our megawatt-class system and excited to build on this strategic collaboration,” says Jeff.


Innovation Partners:


“Wright and Honeywell are partnering to explore various technologies including turbogenerator and fuel cell offerings as well as utilization of Honeywell test facilities, aircraft, and infrastructure to support the furtherance of Wright’s MW-class propulsion system. These, along with other key initiatives and investments, are part of Honeywell’s commitment to help support our customers’ sustainability goals,” said Taylor Alberstadt, senior director of Power Systems Business Development at Honeywell Aerospace.

“EaglePicher’s aerospace heritage and commitment to advanced power technology has created an opportunity for us to demonstrate advanced cell chemistry applicable to the Wright Electric development program,” says George Cintra, Chief Technology Officer for EaglePicher Technologies. “These efforts are key to advancing high-capacity battery technology with aligned global interests in advancing cell electrochemistry and alternative supply options.”

The JTAP program plan and aircraft launch path are planned to be completed by October 2022. Development of the Wright Spirit then advances towards flight testing with one all-electric engine by 2023, progressing to a full four-engine, zero-emissions flight of the 100-passenger, zero-emissions aircraft by 2026.


More top stories you might be interested in.....


Follow this site here.



Search