TLDR
- Collins Aerospace has launched preliminary testing of electric motor drive systems under the EU Clean Aviation SWITCH initiative
- The testing is being conducted at Collins’ specialized electric power systems laboratory, “The Grid,” located in Rockford, Illinois
- Test engineers are assessing motor generators, electronic control systems, and power distribution components
- Future plans include integration with a Pratt & Whitney GTF engine demonstrator
- Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney both operate as RTX subsidiaries
RTX’s Collins Aerospace division has commenced preliminary laboratory testing of electric motor drive technologies as part of the European Union’s Clean Aviation SWITCH initiative. This program aims to advance hybrid-electric propulsion technology for next-generation commercial aircraft.
The testing activities are taking place at Collins’ Rockford, Illinois facility — a specialized electric power systems laboratory known as “The Grid.” This purpose-built facility is designed to handle complex, high-voltage systems testing.
Engineering teams at the location are conducting comprehensive evaluations of critical hybrid-electric powertrain components. The testing encompasses motor generators, control systems, and power distribution infrastructure.
This testing phase represents an early-stage effort. The program has more ambitious objectives ahead.
Future GTF Engine Integration on the Horizon
The following phase involves integrating the hybrid-electric powertrain subsystem with a full-scale demonstrator variant of the Pratt & Whitney GTF engine. This integration work remains in the planning stages.
Both Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney operate as divisions within RTX, positioning the parent company as a central player in multiple technological components of the SWITCH program.
The Clean Aviation SWITCH initiative represents an EU-backed research program. Its mission is to accelerate the development of hybrid-electric propulsion as a pathway to reducing emissions in commercial aviation.
Collins Aerospace has not released information regarding when the GTF integration phase will commence. The ongoing Rockford testing marks the first publicly announced achievement within the program.
Testing Scope and Components
The powertrain components currently undergoing evaluation include motor generators — dual-purpose devices capable of operating as either electric motors or generators. These work in conjunction with control electronics that regulate power distribution.
Power distribution infrastructure is also part of the testing regime. This equipment channels electrical energy throughout the system and serves as a fundamental element in any hybrid propulsion configuration.
The “Grid” facility possesses the capability to simulate the electrical demands required for aircraft-scale hybrid systems. Collins developed this laboratory specifically for advancing electric power systems technology.
RTX has not released financial details related to its SWITCH program participation. EU Clean Aviation operates as a public-private collaboration, with industry participants typically contributing funding alongside EU support.
Collins Aerospace revealed the testing commencement on Monday, March 16. Additional program milestones have not yet been made public.
