Nidec Leroy-Somer has signed an agreement with Airbus to develop an electric motor for its hydrogen-powered fuel cell engine prototype, as part of Airbus’ ambition to bring the first zero-emission commercial aircraft to market by 2035. The expertise and know-how of the French electric motor manufacturer, which provides proven advanced technologies to many demanding industries such as the Navy, nuclear, railway, automotive and robotics, is now collaborating on aviation decarbonisation.
Leroy-Somer, part of the Japanese Nidec Group since 2017, is entrusted to design and develop a series of electric motor prototypes which meet very high requirements in terms of safety, reliability, energy-efficiency and lowest weight for the targeted power. Its skilled Research & Development team is also challenged to explore breakthrough technologies and innovations to optimise the architecture of the aircraft propulsion system. Project management, design, engineering and prototyping will all be carried out from its headquarters in Angouleme, France.
Prototypes, designed for performance and integration in Airbus’ zero-emission hydrogen-powered fuel cell engine, will first be tested on the ground using dedicated test benches. Following the initial qualification and validation, a second phase of in-flight testing will be conducted.
“We are pleased to have been selected by Airbus to provide our expertise in high-efficiency electric motors and contribute, through our innovative R&D teams and solutions, to this ambitious eco-friendly commercial aviation project. This important milestone for more sustainable mobility, presents several challenges that we are committed to overcome, to serve the global community” said Jean-Michel Condamin, President of the Commercial & Industrial Motors Division.