Tuesday, March 26, 2024

Safran’s electric smart motor to power the all-electric eDA40 aircraft

Austrian-based Diamond Aircraft has signed an agreement with Safran Electrical & Power, a world leader in aircraft electrical systems, to equip the eDA40 all-electric training aircraft with an ENGINeUSTM electric smart motor.

Based on the company’s existing and certified DA40 platform, the eDA40 is a single-motor trainer aircraft. It is claimed to be the first EASA/FAA Part 23 certified electric airplane with Direct Current (DC) fast charging – capable of turning around a depleted aircraft in under 20 minutes.

The eDA40 electric aircraft is expected to achieve a flight time of up to 90 minutes as the battery technologies evolve and reduce operating costs by up to 40% compared to traditional piston aircraft. The eDA40 will be equipped with Safran’s ENGINeUSTM electric motor. Safran has developed a broad range of electric motors with power outputs from single-digit to 500 kW.

The ENGINeUS 100 will equip the eDA40.
The ENGINeUS 100 will equip the eDA40. Credit: Safran

The eDA40 will feature ENGINeUS 100, which delivers 130 kW maximum at take-off power and features a fully integrated motor controller within the machine. It also boasts an optimized air-cooling system to provide thermal management.

“With Safran, we have an expert partner for electric propulsion systems aboard. The smart motor’s state-of-the-art technology, including smart features paired with a well-advanced certification process, is the logical choice for our eDA40. We are looking forward to the first flights scheduled for the end of 2022,” says Liqun (Frank) Zhang, CEO of Diamond Aircraft Industries Austria.

The certification of the electric motor is planned for mid-2023. Basic EASA certification for the eDA40 is expected at the end of 2023 or early 2024.