University of Cambridge, Boeing Complete Test Flight for Hybrid Plane

Researchers at the University of Cambridge, in partnership with Boeing, have completed testing on the first hybrid-electric plane. The prototype aircraft uses up to 30% less fuel than a similar plane with a fuel-only engine and is able to recharge batteries during flight. The tests were conducted near Northampton, England.

The design uses a combination of a 4-stroke piston engine and an electric motor and is based on a commercially-available, single-seat aircraft. The hybrid system, according to the university, is based on a Honda engine and includes a power electronics module to control the current to and from the batteries. The aircraft uses a set of 16 lithium-polymer cells built into the wings to implement electric power.

The team, according to a press release, plans to conduct more tests to improve designs and further research for entirely electric aircraft.

“Our mission is to keep our sights on finding innovative solutions and technologies that solve our industry’s toughest challenges and continually improve environmental performance,” said Marty Bradley, Boeing’s principal investigator for the program. “Hybrid electric is one of several important elements of our research efforts, and we are learning more every day about the feasibility of these technologies and how they could be used in the future.”

Watch a video on the project below:

For more information, visit the University of Cambridge and Boeing.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.