Electric propulsions systems developer MagniX has announced a renewed partnership with Robinson Helicopter Company to develop a battery-electric powertrain for the Robinson R66 helicopter, with expected electrification in 2026.
MagniX’s new powertrain will use its lightweight Helistorm engines unveiled earlier this year. Weighing about 165 pounds, these engines are significantly lighter than traditional turbine engines.
In 2022, MagniX powered the first flight of a retrofitted electric Robinson R44 helicopter. In March 2025 the company reported that it had completed the world’s first piloted flight of a hydrogen-electric helicopter, again an R44. According to MagniX, it is the first company to have been granted special conditions for electric engine airworthiness by the FAA.
Retrofitting the R66 will include using MagniX’s Samson batteries. Announced in 2024, the batteries can withstand over 1,000 full-depth discharge cycles and are designed to power helicopters and eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft.
Robinson R66 Set for Electric Transformation With MagniX Power
Companies renew partnership to electrify the popular R66 helicopter by 2026.
Key Takeaways:
- MagniX and Robinson Helicopter Company are collaborating to develop a battery-electric powertrain for the Robinson R66 helicopter, with electrification anticipated by 2026.
- The R66 will be powered by MagniX's newly developed lightweight Helistorm engines and Samson batteries, leveraging MagniX's prior experience with electric and hydrogen-electric helicopter flights and FAA airworthiness approvals.
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