Evolution of Fundamental Technologies for Future Electrified Aircraft

Abstract

Gradual progression of electric and hybrid electric aircraft from small planes to large planes will require technology advances in multiple areas, which include energy storage, electrical machines, power transmission, power electronics, control systems, materials, thermal management, and multi-scale modeling tools. Advances in both fundamental research and applied interdisciplinary research will be required to realize the goals for future electric and hybrid electric aircraft. The presentation will provide an overview of long-range research and technology needs for the next thirty years and how evolution of several early stage technologies will influence the development of electrified aircraft in the future.