Safran Electrical & Power is to equip China-based eVTOL developer TCab Tech's E20 aircraft with ENGINeUS electric smart motors.

“By providing our ENGINeUS electric motors to this revolutionary E20 eVTOL designed by TCab Tech, Safran Electrical & Power is participating in the writing of a new page in urban air mobility. This project combines breakthrough technologies, a low-carbon footprint and a high level of safety due to the electric distributed propulsion,” says vice president of sales and marketing Thierry Sieg.

TCab's five seat, passenger-carrying E20 eVTOL aircraft has four tilt and two lift rotors, a high gull wing and a conventional tailplane design. The eVTOL targets a maximum design range of 200 km and a cruising speed of 260 km/hour. Safran will supply all six ENGINeUS electric smart motors. Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) certification for the E20 is expected by 2025.

The ENGINeUS product line includes a broad range of electric motors with power outputs from single digit to 500 kW. The ENGINeUS 100, which will equip the E20, delivers more than 100 kW at take off and features a fully integrated motor controller within the machine. The thermal management is provided by an optimised air-cooling system. The certification of the electric motor is planned for mid 2023.

“By bringing sustainable and innovative technologies, Safran is proud to partner with TCab Tech to further be present in this new emerging and environmentally friendly sector of urban air mobility in China," says Safran general delegate for China and CEO of Safran China Philippe Bardol. "We have high hopes for the eVTOL E20's prospects in the Chinese market.”

“A world class motor partner is essential for the development of eVTOL aircraft,” adds TCab Tech CEO and founder Yon Wui Ng. “We are excited to work together with Safran to integrate the E20 with a high reliability and superb performance electric propulsion system. The smart motor has a well-advanced certification plan matching our E20 certification needs, which makes it an ideal choice for our eVTOL aircraft.”