Aircraft
Airbus On Track for E-Fan X Hybrid-Electric Flight in 2021
Airbus recently completed wind tunnel tests on a scale model of the E-Fan X hybrid-electric technology demonstrator aircraft, based on the BAe 146 RJ100.
Airbus has been testing a scale model of its E-Fan X hybrid-electric technology demonstrator in Filton, UK. [Photo: Airbus]
Airbus has been testing a scale model of its E-Fan X hybrid-electric technology demonstrator in Filton, UK. [Photo: Airbus]

Airbus is stepping up preparations to fly its E-Fan X hybrid-electric demonstrator aircraft as part of a long-term effort to develop a commercially viable, electrically powered airliner. The group is reconfiguring a BAE 146 RJ100 aircraft with a 2-MW electric motor replacing one of its turbofans and aims to achieve first flight in 2021.