Electra inks production deal with Safran for 250 TG600 turbogenerators powering EL9 hybrid aircraft

Electra has finalized a production agreement with Safran Helicopter Engines (SHE) to supply its TG600 turbogenerator system for the EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft. This deal follows a memorandum of understanding signed in 2023 and includes an initial firm order for 250 TG600 units. Electra targets the EL9 to enter service by 2030, with hopes to complete the first flight in late 2027 or early 2028. Key to this timeline is a recently secured certification basis set by the US Federal Aviation Administration under the Part 23 commuter aircraft category.

The TG600 turbogenerator combines a 1,300 shp (970 kW) Arrano-class turboshaft engine — the same engine model used in the Airbus Helicopters H160 medium-twin — with a pair of GENeUS generators from Safran Electrical & Power, SHE's sister company. This setup produces an output of 600 kW, which energizes the eight Evolito electric motors arranged along the EL9’s wings, facilitating its hybrid-electric propulsion.

In July, Safran Helicopter Engines successfully completed the first bench test of the TG600 system designed specifically to power the EL9's maiden flight. This milestone is crucial not only in validating the turbogenerator’s performance but also in advancing Electra’s distributed propulsion technology. The EL9’s configuration leverages this system alongside a blown-wing design, enabling impressive short takeoff and landing capabilities, with an estimated ground roll as short as 45 meters (150 feet).

Marc Allen, Electra’s chief executive, described the agreement as a pivotal advancement for the company and the larger field of advanced air mobility. He highlighted that securing a production contract for the turbogenerator marks a defining moment in Electra's development path. This step confirms the transition from prototype collaboration to full-scale industrial deployment of the EL9’s powertrain components.

Cedric Goubet, head of Safran Helicopter Engines, noted that this contract launch signifies SHE’s official entry into turbogenerator production activities. He emphasized SHE's ongoing leadership in turboshaft technology and described this expansion into turbogenerators as a promising new chapter. The synergy between Safran's expertise in turboshaft engines and its electrical power solutions via GENeUS generators underpins the TG600’s capability.

The collaboration highlights the trend toward hybrid-electric propulsion in regional and commuter aviation sectors, where increased efficiency, reduced emissions, and enhanced short-field performance are priorities. The EL9’s design allows integration of the turbogenerator with multiple electric motors to distribute thrust across the wings, resulting in better control and aerodynamic benefits compared to traditional single-engine designs.

Electra’s ambition to certify the EL9 within the FAA’s Part 23 commuter category indicates a strategic approach to regulatory approval, facilitating entry into the regional market. The combination of turbomachinery and electric systems reflects a hybrid strategy to meet evolving environmental regulations and airport community noise restrictions.

The planned production quantity of 250 TG600 units for the EL9 demonstrates significant confidence in the program’s market potential. This volume suggests Electra and Safran anticipate strong commercial demand for ultrashort takeoff and landing aircraft powered by hybrid-electric architectures. The EL9 aims to meet growing regional transportation needs where runway length and community impact limit traditional aircraft.

By leveraging established turbomachinery in the form of the Arrano engine and combining it with proprietary generator technology, Safran is positioning the TG600 as a scalable powerplant solution for hybrid-electric aviation. This agreement with Electra could set a precedent for further turbogenerator applications across the emerging advanced air mobility ecosystem.