Electrification in commercial and DoD aircraft is gaining momentum because of cost, tactical, and environmental benefits.
Numerous technology programmes in development support the effort to electrify the C-130, including powerful electric propulsion units, lightweight batteries, and efficient power distribution systems.
A NASA study that won best paper at a prestigious aerospace research conference in 2024 examined a hybrid-electric C-130 for commercial cargo applications. It found that potential block fuel savings could be as high as 27-44 percent. In real-life terms, this could mean an increase in airline profit margins of up to 6x.
Wright's second generation megawatt-class motor, WM2500, built with support from DOE ARPA-E and NASA, is nearly complete. The stator is wound, the rotor is complete, and all mechanical components are finished. Final assembly will begin later this year.
WM2500 is a 2.5 MW electric propulsion unit targeted to achieve industry leading power and power density. It is designed for ducted fan and propeller-based applications.
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