magniX launches engine line for electric helicopters

Electric aviation company magniX has launched a range of lightweight, high-speed electric engines. The HeliStorm engines are suited for helicopters, from light single engine to larger hybrid-electric twin engine rotorcraft, as well as for airborne power generation.

Combined with magniX’s Samson batteries, HeliStorm engines enable the company to offer a complete electric solution for rotorcraft. The first engine in the range provides peak power of 330kW at a weight of 75kg.

Key features of HeliStorm engines for rotorcraft include:

• Operating speed of 6,000rpm to 7,000rpm
• Significantly lighter than turbine engines for similar aircraft
• Scalable power output ranges
• Fault handling
• Airborne power generation extends range of hybrid-electric platforms

With this new engine range, magniX aims to leverage its years of experience across many flight test programs, including two separate integrations with Robinson R44 helicopters. The first electric Robinson R44 helicopter powered by a magniX motor flew on June 4, 2022 at the Los Alamitos Army Airfield in California. This was a significant milestone in the development of electric aviation and subsequent tests went on to deliver the world’s first point-to-point flight of an electric helicopter.

“The helicopter market represents a tremendous opportunity for magniX, as the strengths of our technology align well with the market need,” said magniX CEO Reed Macdonald. “magniX’s HeliStorm engines expand upon our existing capabilities and deliver a step change in performance, reliability, and value for our customers. We look forward to bringing our innovative technology to another segment of the aviation industry.”

“Our HeliStorm engines are designed for the specific demands of vertical lift applications and will give magniX the ability to electrify a wider range of platforms,” said Riona Armesmith, magniX’s chief technology officer.

“magniX has a proven track record when it comes to powering our R44 with their electric motors,” said David Smith, CEO of Robinson Helicopters. “Robinson is supportive of magniX’s HeliStorm electric engine range and we look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts to deliver market leading sustainable helicopters.”