Scalability analysis of radical technologies to various aircraft class: Part 1: initial designs

Various research initiatives in hybrid-electric/sustainable aviation typically address only a single vehicle or single vehicle class. However, novel propulsion and energy solutions can be expected to be differently applied in different vehicle classes. The objective of the EU funded research project CHYLA (Credible HYbrid eLectric Aircraft) is to identify areas suitable for scaling, as well as limitations or challenges for development for the applications of key radical technologies on different classes of aircraft. This article provides an overview of the design approach followed for the CHYLA project, as well as initial radical designs and comparison to the CHYLA baselines. These provide the starting point for both the sensitivity study which will be presented in a later scalability assessment and economical assessments in the CHYLA project. A variety of regional, short medium range and large aircraft has been designed, all according to the same TLAR yet without detailed tuning of important power control variables. Results are distinguishable between concepts and provide sufficient detail to capture the necessary effects. The reduction of fuel consumption will require detailed assessment and fine tuning, though reductions may be achievable for regional and possibly SMR aircraft.