Rosyth firm takes off with world-first
Prototype electric engine in development
A ROSYTH firm has landed a deal to help design and manufacture the world’s first fully-electric jet engine.
The project from Mako Aerospace, in collaboration with the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS), could double the range of an electric aircraft compared to current hybrid models.
Kieran Duncan, founder and CEO, said: “Partnering with the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland was an obvious step for Mako to help us bring the world’s first all-electric jet engine to life.
“We’re looking forward to the demonstration day in October, which will be used as a springboard to launch further exciting projects towards bringing about sustainable aviation.”
The company, which aims to create sustainable flight technology by using a lighter and more efficient engine called the Forerunner, which would reduce fuel costs by 70 per cent compared to a traditional turboprop engine.
A prototype is currently in development and will be showcased at a demonstrator day in Edinburgh in October, with Mako aiming to bring it to the market with experimental certification within the next two years.
NMIS, which is operated by the University of Strathclyde, where Kieran and chief operations officer Pia Saelen studied, are already involved in wideranging research which explores the impact of this on achieving a fully-electric commercial flight.
The project will also be supported by experts from the institution’s Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering (EEE) and the Future Electrical Machines Manufacturing (FEMM) Hub.
Dr Jill Miscandlon, senior manufacturing engineer at NMIS, said: “At the National
Manufacturing Institute Scotland, we are committed to supporting manufacturing, engineering and related technology businesses to achieve their netzero ambitions in the face of the climate emergency.
“We’re excited to be involved in this R&D project, collaborating with Mako and some of the best minds within the areas of superconductors and electrical machines to demonstrate the vast potential of this technology, and may even convince some of the bigger players in the industry to invest in the future of electric aircraft.
“The long-term goal of electric flight is the same for many within aerospace but Mako is looking at more imminent solutions for short-haul flights that we hope could act as a stepping stone to further developments in the field.
“Ultimately, the work we are doing now will build on the ongoing wider fundamental research.”