P-Volt : Tecnam partners with Rolls-Royce to electrify the P2012

Most electric- or hybrid-powered aircraft to date have been third-party conversion projects or brand-new designs which are full electric from the start.  In this example, an Italian manufacturer has partnered with an engine OEM with a view of moving an existing production line to electric powered aircraft.

In this modern world, full of challenges and changes, TECNAM remains more focused than ever on exploring innovative solutions for the future of greener aviation. Never has it been more important to pursue knowledge and develop practices that can lead to more environmentally friendly and ecologically responsible decisions, both in design and in operation.

With these key factors in mind, TECNAM is pleased to announce a partnership with Rolls-Royce and major worldwide aviation players, including North American and European airlines for the development of the P-Volt: an all-electric, twin electric motor, Short and Medium Range passenger aircraft, designed for maximum versatility and safety, powered by renewable energy.

The P-Volt will benefit of TECNAM’s achievements in the 11 seats category aircrafts, where, after decades, the P2012 Traveller has established a new global reference, the P-Volt will be the first commercial
9 passengers, cargo, medical evacuation and special mission aircraft to be electrified directly by the manufacturer, raising TECNAM’s ‘DREAM concept’ (Durability, Reliability, Employability, Affordability & Manageability) to a new, unrivalled level of efficiency.

The TECNAM P-Volt propulsion system and avionics, engineered to lift the world to sustainable energy along with the Clean Aviation roadmap, will be specifically 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.

Dedicated battery technology will ensure full power availability for quick turnaround times between landing and take-off. The benefits of the propulsion system also extend to reducing the aircraft’s operating costs and noise emissions for a more accessible and comfortable transportation system that will elevate the air travel operations worldwide to new heights.

TECNAM and Rolls-Royce are already in partnership with the H3PS project: a parallel hybrid electric version of the P2010 four-seater, pairing the electric motor from Rolls-Royce with a combustion engine from Rotax.

Paolo Pascale Langer, TECNAM CEO: “TECNAM is proud to announce the P-Volt design and development.  We all need to commit our efforts towards systems that contribute to decarbonization. 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, 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.”