Aircraft engine manufacturer Rolls-Royce has collaborated with aeronautics manufacturer Tecnam and Scandinavian airline Widerøe to launch an all-electric passenger aircraft.

As part of this collaboration, the companies aim to introduce the aircraft to the Norwegian commuter market by 2026.

Rolls-Royce will contribute its knowledge in propulsion and power systems while Tecnam will be responsible for aircraft design, manufacturing and certification capabilities.

As a launch operator, Widerøe will have all-new capabilities, processes and procedures required designed and approved.

Rolls-Royce electrical director Rob Watson said: “Electrification will help us deliver our ambition to enable the markets in which we operate achieve net-zero carbon by 2050.

“This collaboration strengthens our existing relationships with Tecnam and Widerøe as we look to explore what is needed to deliver an all-electric passenger aircraft for the commuter market.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

“It also demonstrates Rolls-Royce’s ambitions to be the leading supplier of all-electric and hybrid-electric propulsion and power systems across multiple aviation markets.”

The collaboration builds on a joint research programme launched by Rolls-Royce with Widerøe on sustainable aviation in 2019.

The two companies aim to develop electrical aircraft concepts that meet Norway’s goal of zero-emissions by 2030, as well as replace and electrify Widerøe’s regional fleet of more than 30 aircraft.

Last year, Tecnam and Rolls-Royce announced a partnership to develop the all-electric, twin-electric motor, short and medium-range passenger P-Volt aircraft.

These two partners are also working on a parallel hybrid electric version of the P2010 four-seater under the H3PS project.

The P-Volt aircraft is based on the 11-seat Tecnam P2012 Traveller aircraft. It will be suitable for the short take-off and landing, as well as Norway’s North and the West Coast routes.

Earlier this month, Rolls-Royce successfully completed the first runway taxiing test of its all-electric ‘Spirit of Innovation’ aircraft.