The aircraft will use fuel cell electric motors and possibly a hydrogen power plant.
South Korean automaker Hyundai has signed a partnership agreement with Rolls-Royce to expand into the aviation industry. The partnership will develop new solutions for air mobility.
Rolls-Royce has been a leader in the aviation industry for many years, building engines for more than 500 airlines. Today it is the second largest manufacturer in the world. In partnership with Hyundai, the company is looking to combine its capabilities with Hyundai's rapidly evolving electric fuel cell technology to enable work on personal air vehicles.
The first aircraft in the Hyundai x Rolls-Royce partnership is expected to be built in 2025. It will use fuel cell electric motors and possibly a hydrogen propulsion system.
“The Advanced Air Mobility Market offers great commercial potential, and this collaboration supports our joint ambitions to lead the way in the Advanced Air Mobility Market,” said Rob Watson, president of Rolls-Royce Electrical.
Earlier this month, Hyundai portfolio company Supernal officially unveiled the all-electric VTOL cockpit at the Farnborough International Air Show. The South Korean manufacturer also announced plans to invest up to $10 billion in the aircraft manufacturing sector over the next three years.
