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 renewing their partnership to develop a battery-electric powertrain for the Robinson R66 helicopter, with electrification expected by 2026.
- The new powertrain will utilize MagniX's lightweight Helistorm engines and Samson batteries, designed for high-performance electric aircraft and offering over 1,000 discharge cycles.
- MagniX has a pioneering history in electric aviation, having completed the first retrofitted electric R44 flight (2022) and the world's first piloted hydrogen-electric helicopter flight (2025), and is the first company granted special FAA airworthiness conditions for electric engines.
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