Rolls-Royce is working on an initiative to strengthen its hybrid electric power and propulsion research and development activities in Brandenburg, Germany, according to a company announcement on Monday. The company says the proposal will build on an established Rolls-Royce partnership with the Brandenburg Technical University (BTU) along with potentially including participation from small and medium-sized businesses in the region. As previously reported by AVweb, Rolls-Royce also signed an agreement to purchase Siemens’ eAircraft unit, which develops electric and hybrid-electric propulsion systems, last month.
“Developing world-class hybrid electric power and propulsion systems represents a significant opportunity for Rolls-Royce, which we are pursuing globally with vigor and focus,” said Rolls-Royce Director of Business Aviation Dirk Geisinger. “With the acquisition of the Siemens eAircraft business we are investing in in Germany and Hungary already. Adding Brandenburg with the BTU and regional partners to that effort would be an exciting next step.”
Rolls-Royce says the initiative will focus on developing 400kW to 1000kW hybrid-electric propulsion systems. If approved, the program will be funded by the State of Brandenburg and Rolls-Royce over the next six years. Details are expected to be agreed upon by the end of 2019.
