H55 Collaborates with Safran for Electric Propulsion on Bristell B23 Energic Aircraft

H55 Teams Up with Safran for Electric Aviation

In a significant move for the electric aviation sector, H55, a Swiss company focused on certified electric propulsion systems, has established a partnership with Safran Electrical & Power. They have signed a pivotal agreement to incorporate Safran's renowned ENGINeUS electric motor into the H55 electric propulsion system. This collaboration marks a major step forward in the development of the fully electric Bristell B23 Energic aircraft.

The aim of this collaboration is to provide certified electric propulsion solutions tailored for general aviation, specifically targeting CS-23 / Part 23 Level 1 and 2 aircraft. By merging Safran's EASA-certified ENGINeUS electric motor technology with H55's proficiency in energy storage and propulsion integration, the partnership intends to overcome the existing hurdles in electric aviation certification.

With electric aviation certifications being the primary barrier to entry, the agreement signifies a joined effort to speed up the introduction of these solutions to the market. Both parties have recently accomplished significant EASA certification milestones, laying down the groundwork for future innovations in this sector. The Bristell B23 Energic program serves as a foundational platform, targeting the burgeoning electric pilot training market, driven by demands for reduced operating costs and zero-emission flying.

As Safran Electrical Power takes on responsibilities for both the prototype and serial production stages starting in 2027, they are also committing to dedicated in-service support. According to Agnès Pronost-Gilles, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Safran's Power Division, the selection of ENGINeUS reflects its status as the only certified electric motor available in the aviation market. The motor prides itself on a distinguished power-to-weight ratio and a reliability that is crucial for addressing industry needs.

Rob Solomon, the CEO of H55, commented on this partnership, stating, “This collaboration combines the two leading companies in certified electric aviation for light aircraft. For the first time, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) will have a fully certifiable electric propulsion system to build their aircraft around. This reduces the timeline needed for certification immensely, changing the landscape of electric aircraft manufacturing.”

Martin Bristela, CEO and Co-Founder of Bristell - BRM AERO, highlighted the strategic advantage that this partnership provides to flight schools. The Bristell B23, already certified under both EASA and FAA regulations and available with multiple engine configurations, will now transition to a zero-emission training model seamlessly. This means that operators can retain the same cockpit and support system while integrating a new electric powertrain.

The core focus of H55 lies in enabling electric aviation to gain momentum by converting standard commercial lithium cells into aviation-safe Energy Storage Systems. These systems are not only approved by regulators but can also be consistently deployed by OEMs as reliable propulsion platforms. Their strategic approach is built upon two decades of expertise in electric aviation, from designing and flying electric aircraft to accumulating over 2,000 hours of fully electric flight without any battery-related incidents.

As for Safran, it is a leading international high-technology group with a significant footprint in the aviation industry, focusing on propulsion, equipment, and interiors. Safran is committed to fostering a safer, more environmentally friendly world, and its global presence speaks volumes with over 110,000 employees and a substantial annual revenue.

In summary, the collaboration between H55 and Safran is a pioneering effort that merges cutting-edge electric propulsion technology with innovative design, marking a new era in sustainable aviation. With the growing interest in electric flight, this partnership has potential implications not just for the aviation industry, but for efforts toward achieving broader environmental sustainability goals.