Posted on 12/28/2021 12:47:37 PM PST by Red Badger
Wright Electric, an electric aircraft start-up founded in 2016, announced a new project - the Wright Spirit, which joins the previously announced Wright 1 flagship.
The Wright Spirit is a 100-passenger electric airliner envisioned for one-hour flights, equipped with four, "megawatt-class" motors. The initial design is based on the BAe 146 platform:
"The Wright Spirit aircraft design builds on the BAe 146 platform - a 100 passenger, 4-engine aircraft known for its operation out of noise-sensitive airports."
According to the press release, the prototype will begin flight testing with one electric motor (and, as we understand, three conventional engines), two electric motors in 2024 and as a full-electric aircraft by 2026.
"To develop the integrated propulsion system, Wright has assembled an innovative team of companies with expertise in generation, energy storage and propulsion design. The program now proceeds with on-going ground testing and final selection of the propulsion system. In 2023, the aircraft will begin flight testing with one all-electric propulsor. The development program will then accelerate towards flight testing with two all-electric propulsors by 2024 leading to the full-electric aircraft by 2026. "
Fo reference, the 186-seat Wright 1 is expected to have 10 electric motors (2 MW each) for a total peak output of 20 MW. But it's launch is expected no earlier than in 2030.
The power output is very high. According to Wright Electric, even a small 50-seat ATR-42 would require two 2 MW electric motors.
The company explains that it is in the process of development of 2 MW electric motors (scalable from 500 kW to 4 MW) and inverters with ultra-high efficiency and power density.
"The path was set in early 2020 with Wright’s announcement and development of their megawatt propulsion system for an all-electric commercial aircraft. Throughout the last two years, the company has been proving key components of the system including a high-efficiency, high-power density inverter and a 2 MW (2,700 HP) motor. The existing hydrocarbon-based propulsion system will be replaced with Wright’s all-electric, emissions-free propulsion system."
However, Wright Electric's press release remains silent about the energy source. Such a big aircraft would require an adequately big battery pack. The question is whether the energy density allows to build it with today's technology, and then, whether it will be viable?
Aviation Ping!...............
Anywhere you want to go.
As long it’s no more than an hour away.
And if the landing is postponed it will turn into a nice glider.
“The question is whether the energy density allows to build it with today’s technology, and then, whether it will be viable?”
Details, details.
Dibs on the extension cord supply contract!
What could possibly go wrong?
‘Wright Spirit, this is the tower. There has been an accident and the runway is closed. It might be an hour or more before we can clear you for landing’....
And how long to recharge?
Emergency hand cranks for the passengers for reserve juice.
No thanks
How bout a nuclear powered aircraft?
Can you recharge it in mid flight?
Otherwise I hope it can glide with weight.
5.56mm
This will speed up global warming.
What about reserves for safety?
The US military actually had one back in the 50’s, IIRC..........................
What about parachutes for safety?.......................
Or if there is a stiff headwind.
My sons have turned to the dark side, (liberal). In keeping with the liberal dogma, they are all about these scams. Electric anything makes them smile. One told me how solar panels on the roof are the way to go. I’m in NE Ohio where the sun seems to never shine. The panels aren’t particularly efficient nor are they sturdy. But I just smiled.
Electric, sustainable, renewable, all that horse puckey that generally means nothing will sell to these young noodleheads.
This will be their world. I’m nearing the end of my run. I do hope they enjoy the mess they are helping to put together.
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