“BETA Technologies, GE Aerospace Collaborate to Advance Hybrid Electric Flight”
BETA Technologies announced last week a new collaboration with GE Aerospace that includes an equity investment, to advance the development of hybrid electric aviation by combining BETA’s aircraft innovation with GE Aerospace’s global scale and experience, reports a press release.
Under this agreement, the two companies aim to develop a hybrid electric turbogenerator for advanced air mobility (AAM) applications, including long-range VTOL aircraft, future BETA aircraft, and other potential applications.
The release explains, “The partnership brings BETA’s expertise in high-performance, permanent magnet electric generators together with GE Aerospace’s tested turbine, certification and safety expertise, for large-scale manufacturing and electrical power systems expertise.”
Kyle Clark, BETA Technologies’ Founder and CEO, commented, “We believe the industry is on the precipice of a real step change and we’re humbled that GE Aerospace has the confidence in our team, technology and innovation to partner with us.”
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The hybrid solution taps into existing infrastructure and capabilities, such as GE Aerospace’s CT7 and T700 engines, and is expected to bring significant enhancements in range, payload and speed performance compared to other aircraft in the same segment.
Lawrence Culp, Jr, GE Aerospace Chairman and CEO, remarked, “Partnering with BETA will expand and accelerate hybrid electric technology development, meeting our customers’ needs for differentiated capabilities that provide more range, payload and optimised engine and aircraft performance.”
Additionally, the company is to make an equity investment of USD300 million in BETA, subject to regulatory approval. GE Aerospace will also have the right to designate a director to join BETA’s Board.
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(Top image: Kyle Clark, Lawrence Culp Jr, shake hands on their agreement)
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