Rotorcraft
Robinson Teams with MagniX To Develop Electric R66
Partnership was announced during EAA AirVenture show in Oshkosh
Robinson R66 helicopter
MagniX is supporting plans to offer an electric-powered version of the Robinson R66 helicopter. © Robinson Helicopter Company

Robinson Helicopter and propulsion system innovator MagniX have agreed to jointly develop a battery-electric powertrain for the R66 rotorcraft. The companies announced their plans today at EAA AirVenture, saying they aim to conduct a first flight with the demonstrator system in late 2026.

Washington-based MagniX will provide a fully integrated electric powertrain developed for helicopters. This will use the lightweight, high-speed HeliStorm engines that it unveiled earlier this year. “We have demonstrated the clear cost, noise, and safety benefits of MagniX’s fully-integrated electric powertrains,” said MagniX chief technology officer Riona Armesmith.