XTI Aerospace has signed a memorandum of understanding with VerdeGo Aero to evaluate hybrid-electric propulsion solutions for TriFan 600 variants and other aircraft. The collaboration focuses on unmanned aircraft systems and applications requiring speed, range and VTOL performance. XTI will integrate VerdeGo’s powerplant technologies into certain future aircraft designs from the outset.

The collaboration builds on VerdeGo's recent development work on its VH-4T turbine-hybrid and VH-5 blended turbofan systems, and will allow XTI to consider propulsion-integrated variants early in the design stage. These could include applications where speed, endurance and VTOL capability are critical to logistics and cargo operations.

Scott Pomeroy, XTI’s chairman and CEO, says: “XTI is focused on enabling unparalleled mission capability; high speed and long range with VTOL capabilities. We believe hybrid-electric power generation, electric propulsion and other emerging technologies will enable XTI to deliver superior performance and increased sustainability across a wide range of applications and use cases. VerdeGo is a technology and thought leader in the field and we are excited to collaborate with it.”

VerdeGo CEO Eric Bartsch adds: “VerdeGo Aero sees great potential for high-performance hybridised versions of the XTI aircraft family that leverage VerdeGo's portfolio of hybrid powerplants to provide high-speed cruise and VTOL capabilities. Building on the maturity of our VH-4T turbine-hybrid powerplant and the design and analysis work completed on the VH-5 blended turbofan through both internal development and defence-supported programmes, VerdeGo will be working with XTI to identify optimal combinations of powertrain and airframe to deliver on the missions that are most important for both military and civilian markets.”