GE Aerospace is embarking on an ambitious project to develop a hybrid electric engine, aiming to power next-generation narrow-body jets by the middle of the next decade. This cutting-edge technology, still in the testing phase, has the potential to significantly reduce the aviation industry’s carbon footprint, with hybrid-engine jets likened to a Toyota Prius of the skies. Given that single-aisle jets account for half of the industry’s emissions, this innovation could play a crucial role in mitigating environmental impact.
Hybrid cars are commonplace on roads, but decarbonizing the aerospace sector poses a far greater challenge. In hybrid engines, aircraft utilize multiple energy sources during flight. Airbus estimates that combining jet fuel or sustainable aviation fuels with electricity can cut fuel consumption by up to 5% compared to standard flights.
GE Aerospace, in collaboration with NASA, is working on embedding electric motors or generators in high-bypass turbofans to enhance power during various phases of operation. The company announced on Wednesday that it has completed initial tests of the hybrid components and a baseline engine test, with plans to test the components and engine together next.
The global aviation industry has set an ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. However, technologies such as electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft remain unproven, making decarbonization a formidable challenge for an industry responsible for about 2% of global emissions. Developing more fuel-efficient engines is a new frontier for aviation, but environmental critics argue that the industry’s net-zero targets are unrealistic without significantly reducing global air travel.
GE Aerospace’s hybrid engine program is one of several initiatives aimed at developing more fuel-efficient technology. In partnership with France’s Safran, GE is testing the building blocks for an open-bladed jet engine designed for the next generation of medium-haul jets. This engine is expected to reduce fuel use and emissions by 20% by the middle of the next decade.
GE’s rival, RTX, is also making strides in hybrid-electric technology with a demonstrator that combines a thermal engine with an electric motor, aiming to improve fuel efficiency by 30%.
