28 October 2020
Italian manufacturer Tecnam is partnering with Rolls-Royce to develop an all-electric version of its P2012 Traveller mini-airliner called the P-Volt.
Also involved in the project are several North American and European airlines interested in a twin electric motor, short and medium range passenger aircraft.
The P-Volt will be based on the 11-seat P2012 Traveller airframe. It will seat up to 9 passengers, and can be configured for a number of other roles including cargo, medical evacuation and special mission.
The Tecnam P-Volt propulsion system and avionics will be targeted at commercial operations. All-electric motors, avionics, heating, air conditioning and state-of-the art de-ice/anti-ice systems, will provide fully sustainable and pollution-free transportation.
Tecnam and Rolls-Royce are already in partnership with the H3PS project, a parallel hybrid electric version of the P2010 four-seater. This pairs an electric motor from Rolls-Royce with a combustion engine from Rotax.
Tecnam’s 11-seat P2012 Traveller will be the base airframe for the P-Volt. Images: Tecnam
Paolo Pascale Langer, CEIO of Tecnam, said “We all need to commit our efforts towards systems that contribute to decarbonisation. By combining efficiency and renewable energy into the futuristic propulsion system, we will not only reduce costs, but also grant a greener future to our passion for flying.”
Rob Watson, Director of Rolls-Royce Electrical, said, “Rolls-Royce is committed to delivering the electrification of flight and to support the de-carbonisation of aviation.
“This new partnership with Tecnam will strengthen our existing relationship, further developing both companies’ capabilities. We are delighted to work with all the partners on a programme that has the potential to develop the technology to make a significant leap in the commuter market.”
