Benefits of Parallel Hybrid Electric Propulsion for Transport Aircraft

As battery and electric machine technologies improve, the electrification of aircraft propulsion systems may have potential to reduce energy consumption emissions transport aircraft. Incorporating electrical components adds a dimension system design space introduces new tradeoffs between weight efficiency. In this article, we apply numerical optimization conceptual regional category airplanes quantify efficiency benefits parallel hybrid propulsion, identify mechanisms benefits, characterize scaling effects parameters such as range technology specific energy. The results show that state-of-the-art provide savings up 1%–8% over conventional turboprop engines, while projected improvements in allow greater 14%, albeit at reduced relative gas turbine-powered By supplementing turbine engine with power high-thrust conditions, overall can be improved throughout mission. Improvements electronics are identified enablers for efficient propulsion.