GE Aerospace has entered into a strategic alliance with aerospace company BETA Technologies to develop a hybrid electric propulsion system hybrid electric propulsion system for advanced air mobility aircraft (AAM).
As part of the agreement, GE will invest US$300 million in BETA, consolidating its commitment to the electrification of air transportation.
Collaboration for hybrid electric flight
The collaboration aims to create a hybrid turbogenerator that combines GE’s expertise in aero engines and power systems with BETA’s innovative approach to electric propulsion. This technology will be designed for long-range VTOL aircraft and platforms such as ALIA VTOL and ALIA CTOL.
The new system aims to overcome the current limitations of pure electric aircraft by extending range, payload and operational efficiency. It will also build on GE’s existing infrastructure, including its CT7 and T700 engines, known for their reliability and global certification.
Investment, technology and shared governance
The announced investment, still subject to regulatory approval, not only represents a significant capital injection for BETA, but also gives GE Aerospace a seat on its Board of Directors. This move reinforces GE’s strategic interest in being an active part of next-generation aircraft development.
BETA, which has achieved breakthroughs in distance and electric flight hours, brings expertise in battery systems and permanent magnet motors, with designs prepared for extreme weather conditions. Its charging network now exceeds 50 locations in the U.S. and Canada.
GE Aerospace has developed key technologies for aerial electrification in recent years, such as multi-kilovolt hybrid propulsion systems and successful tests at 45,000 feet altitude. This new collaboration with BETA seeks to consolidate those advances into a viable commercial product designed for multiple applications – from logistics and defense to passenger transportation.
Source and photo: GE Aerospace
