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Spanish engineers have developed a backup electric propulsion system for small planes to give extra power and range in emergency situations.
The hybrid system, which is suitable for two and four seater passenger planes that weigh up to 750kg, can be retrofitted to existing light aircraft or added to new designs and is available on the market now.
Miguel Ángel Suárez, executive partner at consultancy Axter Aerospace, said: "We are trying to saves lives and prevent accidents related to loss of power during flights, when the engine fails or the fuel runs out.
“Every year in Europe and USA there are an average of 600 accidents, 70 deaths and 24 million euros in losses recorded.”
Andrés Barrado, head of electric power systems at the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, said: "If there is a problem with the main engine, this electric engine starts to function, which will provide an additional range of about 20 kilometers, enough for the pilot to land safely.”
The electric engine is connected to the conventional engine, a high-efficiency lithium battery and an electronic system that draws energy from the battery and adapts it to the needs of the plane. It also has a battery charger which operates during flight.
The hybrid system can also be used as an “electric turbo”, adding up to 40hp during manoeuvres such as take-offs.
The researchers are working on applying the hybrid system to other types of aircraft, such as gyroplanes, gliders, drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles. They said that in addition to saving lives and avoiding financial losses resulting from accidents, its can reduce costs and lower fuel consumption.
Further details in the video below: