Rolls-Royce and Airbus have called time on a joint project to create an experimental hybrid-electric aircraft.
The E-Fan X hybrid-electric demonstrator project was launched in 2017 to explore the potential of hybrid-electric propulsion for commercial aviation.
It saw Rolls-Royce create a hybrid-electric power generation system at a scale never previously seen in the aerospace industry.
The aim was to see the system power a demonstrator aircraft for a maiden test flight in 2021.
However, the partnership between Derby aero engine manufacturer Rolls-Royce and aircraft manufacturer Airbus, has announced that the project has come to an end.
Paul Stein, Rolls-Royce’s chief technology officer, said: “What has been particularly encouraging has been the amount of industry interest and support for this programme, and I know everyone at Rolls-Royce and Airbus has been truly grateful for that.
“As with all such leading-edge programmes, we constantly evaluate the best way forward and it has become clear to both parties that the actual requirement to carry out a test flight with all the elements integrated is not critical at this time.
“As an aircraft, E-Fan X was always designed to be a demonstrator only and never for actual use as a product in service.
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“So, as a result of that joint decision we have agreed that the actual E-Fan X programme will now conclude.
“We thank Airbus and all of our respective partners for their co-operation and support over the last three years.”
However, Mr Stein said that the technology developed by Rolls-Royce during the E-Fan X project will be taken forward.
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He said: “From the Rolls-Royce perspective, our power generation system can and will be integrated into any future aircraft that is developed requiring a hybrid-electric propulsion system, including a comprehensive flight-test programme to ensure that all industry safety requirements are met.
“We are planning that our power generation system ground testing will complete, allowing us to demonstrate the technology and capture all the lessons.
“That work – one of a whole host of projects we are actively involved in - will ensure that we remain a pioneer of electrification, ready to power the more sustainable aircraft of the future.”