2
Photo Info
Bell has revealed a hybrid electric propulsion system utilizing six tilting ducted fans for its air taxi vehicle, Bell Nexus. Bell Image

Safran to power the Bell Nexus

Safran Press Release | January 8, 2019

Estimated reading time 2 minutes, 16 seconds.

The first application of the Safran Hybrid-Electric Propulsion System (HEPS), the Bell Nexus, has officially been unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Bell has revealed a hybrid electric propulsion system utilizing six tilting ducted fans for its air taxi vehicle, Bell Nexus. Bell Image
Bell has revealed a hybrid electric propulsion system utilizing six tilting ducted fans for its air taxi vehicle, Bell Nexus. Bell Image

The propulsion solution of this multi-rotor vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft is capable of producing more than 600 kilowatt-electric (kWe) power.

During ground tests last June the system produced 100 kWe and further tests will be carried out next year.

“This partnership with Bell in the on-demand mobility sector is a strategic opportunity for Safran,” said Jean-Baptiste Jarin, Safran Helicopter Engines’ vice president, Hybrid Propulsion System Program.

“Nexus is the first of a new breed of aircraft; it opens the doors to new markets and new missions. Fully committed to these challenges and sharing a common vision with Bell, we now look forward to seeing it fly,” added Jarin.

“Bell is excited to unveil the Bell Nexus at CES and to share this exciting time with our partners,” said Bell’s Scott Drennan, vice president of innovation. “The Bell Nexus delivers a nexus of transport and technology, comfort and convenience. We look forward to continuing the development of technology with Safran to bring this nexus to life.”

HEPS works by distributing thermal and/or electrical energy, depending on the phase of flight, to multiple rotors. It comprises three sub-systems: electric generation that relies on a turbo-generator and batteries, electric power management and the electric motors that generate lift and propulsion.

Hybrid-electric propulsion solutions being explored by Safran teams are the most efficient way to enable multi-rotor VTOL aircraft to meet future safety, emission and affordability standards.

By 2025, Safran is committed to becoming the market leader in HEPS technology.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

HAI Heli-Expo 2024 Recap

Notice a spelling mistake or typo?

Click on the button below to send an email to our team and we will get to it as soon as possible.

Report an error or typo

Have a story idea you would like to suggest?

Click on the button below to send an email to our team and we will get to it as soon as possible.

Suggest a story