Testing of the hybrid aircraft

The modular gasoline-electric hybrid propulsion system developed by Artus Aircraft and used to power the Artus Lighter Hybrid aircraft was tested in flight during trials in November 2024. In the aircraft propulsion system, an electric motor connected to an internal combustion engine can both generate additional power and act as a generator, recharging batteries during horizontal flight using the excess power of the internal combustion engine.

It was possible to reduce fuel consumption by 30% during takeoff and climb by using electric motor assistance. The system used provides high redundancy and, as a result, significantly increases the level of flight safety, because the combustion engine and electric motors work independently of each other. In the event of an electrical engine failure, the pilot can continue the flight only with the use of the combustion engine.