Aircraft manufacturer XTI Aircraft has announced its decision to use GE Aviation’s Catalyst Engine as the driving force in its TriFan 600 airplane’s hybrid-electric propulsion system.
XTI will work with aircraft engine supplier GE to define and create a series hybrid architecture which will be suited to the TriFan and meet its performance requirements.
“GE believes that parallel and series hybrid propulsion systems, those that include a turbine gas generator to take advantage of the energy density of jet fuel, will lead to much more capable aircraft for both traditional and emerging markets for many years to come,” said GE Aviation turboprops general manager Paul Corkery.
The TriFan’s design combines the more traditional features of a business jet, including speed and range, with the ability to take off and land vertically, in the style of a helicopter.
The six-seat aircraft, which has a maximum speed of 300 knots and a range of 1,200 nautical miles, was unveiled at the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Convention in November 2015 and so far has 80 orders placed from customers worldwide.
“We are excited to announce selection of the GE Catalyst engine for the core of our propulsion system because it provides the level of power required even at the significant altitudes the Trifan will fly,” said XTI CEO Bob LaBelle.
“Our recent work with GE Aviation has convinced us they are the best partner to develop the core of our hybrid-electric propulsion system.”