German aerospace research institution Bauhaus Luftfahrt is displaying its concept for a zero-emissions 190-seat aircraft which could potentially enter service in 2035.
Designated the Ce-Liner, the aircraft would rely on twin electric engines supplied by a bank of up to 16 battery containers.
Bauhaus Luftfahrt says forecasts on battery technology suggest a 600nm (1,110km) range should be achievable by 2030 but would cover only 59% of routes in the 180- to 200-seat sector - the category identified as having the largest potential emissions-abatement effects.
By 2035, it states, the technology would allow a range increase to 900nm, raising the coverage to 79%. If the introduction was pushed back further to 2040, the range could even extend to 1,400nm.
The aircraft's configuration improves aerodynamic efficiency through a non-planar "C-wing", increasing performance without compromising wingspan limitations.
Bauhaus says the design goes "far beyond" current all-electric flight concepts. "Recharging the batteries during turnaround is postulated to remain challenging, hence an exchange after each flight is assumed," it adds.
The electric motors and power-transmission wiring would include high-temperature superconducting technology, raising the power-to-weight ratio.
Bauhaus Luftfahrt's future concepts have also included the Claire Liner, a clean-air box-wing aircraft design, and extreme short take-off capability using laminar airflow and integrated wing fans.
This year, aeronautical testing organisation IABG joined Bauhaus Luftfahrt's original partners, EADS, Liebherr Aerospace, MTU Aero Engines and the Bavarian economics ministry.
Source: Flight Daily News
