#Switzerland #Safran #H55 #Sion #Bristell

H55 Collaborates with Safran for Electric Propulsion of Bristell B23 Energic

H55, a Swiss company dedicated to certified electric propulsion systems, has signed an agreement with Safran Electrical & Power to revolutionize the aviation industry. This partnership will see the integration of the ENGINeUS electric motor from Safran into H55's electric propulsion system, set to power the Bristell B23 Energic, an entirely electric aircraft designed for general aviation.

A Leap Towards Electric Aviation

As the demand for electric flight solutions surges, this collaboration aims to provide EASA-certified electric propulsion systems for light aircraft categorized under CS-23/Part 23, particularly targeting levels 1 and 2. The ENGINeUS motor, notable for being the only certified electric motor in the general aviation market, combines Safran's technological expertise with H55's innovative energy storage and propulsion integration capabilities.

Both companies are focused on overcoming certification challenges, a significant barrier in bringing electric aircraft to market. Recently, their collaboration has achieved critical milestones with EASA, moving closer to realizing fully certified electric solutions for next-generation aircraft capable of accommodating 2 to 6 passengers. The Bristell B23 Energic serves as the first certification platform intended to meet the burgeoning need for electric pilot training aircraft, an area that is actively pursuing reductions in operational costs and greenhouse gas emissions.

Production and Testing Plans

Production phases alongside prototype testing are expected to commence in 2027, with Safran's support continuing throughout the lifecycle of the product. Agnès Pronost-Gilles, General Manager of Safran's Power Division, expressed excitement about the partnership, highlighting the ENGINeUS motor's unparalleled power-to-weight ratio and reliability, which positions it as a leading choice in the marketplace. She emphasized that this collaboration would accelerate the introduction of fully integrated and certified electric and hybrid aircraft solutions.

Rob Solomon, CEO of H55, reiterated the combined strengths of both organizations, noting that they are at the forefront of advancing certified electric aviation for light aircraft. By leveraging H55's extensive battery architecture and Safran's advanced electric motor technology, they are able to provide aircraft manufacturers with a comprehensive, certifiable electric propulsion solution that will significantly expedite the certification timeline for new aircraft designs.

The Future of Aviation Training

As flight schools across Europe and North America build their fleets around the Bristell B23, a platform certified by both the EASA and FAA, the integration of certified electric propulsion from H55 and Safran promises a seamless transition to zero-emission training programs. Operators can expect the same cockpit experience and support networks while transitioning to a new propulsion system, marking a tangible step towards adopting electric aviation.

Martin Bristela, CEO and co-founder of Bristell - BRM AERO, noted that the addition of Safran and H55's certified electric propulsion option allows for a minimum disruption transition towards emission-free training flights, indicating a significant evolution in the sector.

About H55 and Safran

H55 specializes in certified electric propulsion systems and energy storage solutions for aviation, drawing on two decades of experience to enhance the development of electric aviation. Their strategic focus includes characterizing lithium cells, deploying reliable safety architectures, and conducting rigorous regulatory-compliant testing to ensure safe and repeatable energy storage systems.

Conversely, Safran is an international high-tech group excelling in aerospace, defense, and space sectors, dedicated to making air transportation environmentally friendly and more accessible. With a robust presence globally and over 110,000 employees, Safran plays a vital role in advancing aviation technology.

This partnership exemplifies how collaborative efforts can not only accelerate technological advancements but also foster a more sustainable future in aviation. The transition to electric aircraft represents a new frontier in aviation, offering significant benefits to both operators and the environment.