The aviation industry is on the brink of a revolution, with electric aircraft poised to redefine the skies in 2025.
These 20 innovators are spearheading the shift, crafting advanced technologies that promise a cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable future for air travel.
From next-gen propulsion systems to breakthrough designs, these companies are tackling challenges like range, efficiency, and regulatory hurdles.
They’re paving the way for a new era in aviation, where zero-emission flights become the standard. Discover the visionaries shaping the future of electric air travel in our latest feature.
Stay tuned to witness the dawn of eco-friendly aviation!
Eager to learn about industry innovations? Browse additional articles here.
#1 PRATT & WHITNEY CANADA CORP
Headquarter: Longueuil, Quebec, Canada
Pratt & Whitney Canada specialises in aircraft engines, offering innovative propulsion systems for a wide range of aviation sectors.
Key Patents in Electric Aircraft Development
Systems And Methods For Aircraft Wing Plug (US2023356852A1)
Retrofitting a commercial aircraft wing with mixed propulsion systems to improve efficiency and reduce pollution. The wing is segmented into two original portions with a plug inserted between them.
An electric motor and combustion engine are mounted in separate nacelles, one on each side of the plug.
This allows positioning the hybrid-electric powerplant outboard of the wing root for better aerodynamics compared to locating it inboard. The plug connects the wing segments and nacelles.
Hybrid-Electric Aircraft Propulsion System And Method For Operating The Same (EP4227224A1)
Hybrid-electric aircraft propulsion system that uses a sized thermal engine for most flight missions with supplemental electric motors during segments.
The thermal engine is sized to independently power the aircraft for missions. Electric motors powered by batteries provide additional thrust during certain flight segments.
This allows using a smaller, more efficient thermal engine instead of downsizing it for hybrid operation.
It also reduces battery weight and size needed compared to using electric-only for the whole flight. This balances efficiency, regulation compliance, and weight/capacity tradeoffs.
Emergency Power Unit For Electric Aircraft (EP4123157A1)
Emergency power system for electric aircraft to enable safe landings in case of battery failure. The system uses a backup rocket engine to generate exhaust gas that drives a turbine to generate electric power.
This backup power can take over if the main battery fails during flight, allowing the aircraft to land safely. The rocket engine is typically activated when a battery anomaly is detected.
The turbine extracts energy from the exhaust gas and drives an electric generator to produce backup power. The rocket propellant can be stored in separate tanks.
This provides redundant power in case of main battery failure, preventing a complete power loss.
Dual Engine Hybrid-Electric Aircraft (EP3786067A1)
Aircraft propulsion system with mixed drive configurations including hybrid-electric powerplants.
The aircraft has at least one hybrid-electric powerplant with a parallel or in-line arrangement of a thermal engine and an electric motor.
A second thermal engine powers the electric motor. This allows efficient use of both engines for propulsion. The thermal engine can also power an electric machine. Fuel is supplied to the thermal engine.
#2 SAFRAN HELICOPTER ENGINES
Headquarter: Bordes, France
Safran Helicopter Engines manufactures advanced turboshaft engines for helicopters, enabling efficient and reliable rotorcraft performance.
Key Patents in Electric Aircraft Development
Hybrid propulsion vertical take-off and landing aircraft equipped with an on-board automatic energy management system (FR3092926A1)
Automatic energy management system for vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft with hybrid propulsion to enable autonomous operation without a pilot.
The system selects the optimal power source between the onboard generator, batteries, and fuel cells based on flight conditions, weight, and range to efficiently manage energy usage.
It leverages sensors for position, weight, fuel level, and real-time battery capacity to autonomously optimize power sourcing during flight.
Hybrid/Electric Propulsion Architecture And Method For Dissipating Electrical Energy In Such An Architecture (WO2020174165A1)
Hybrid-electric propulsion architecture for a multi-rotor drone that reduces weight and simplifies electrical energy management compared to conventional series hybrid systems.
The architecture uses a motor-generator instead of a separate generator to convert engine power to electricity.
This allows the internal combustion engine to directly drive the generator during regenerative braking.
The drone also has a DC bus, batteries, and rectifiers to convert between AC and DC. By optimizing energy flow and storage, it eliminates the need for dedicated electric dissipation systems.
Hybrid Propulsive Installation For An Aircraft (FR3094697B1)
The invention describes a hybrid propulsion system for a multi-rotor rotary-wing aircraft.
It integrates an internal combustion engine-driven generator, energy conversion components, high-voltage DC bus, electric motors powering propellers, and dual storage elements for enhanced energy management.
The system ensures efficient propulsion and optimized energy storage and distribution.
#3 RAYTHEON TECHNOLOGIES CORP
Headquarter: Arlington, Virginia, USA
Raytheon Technologies is a leading aerospace and defence company offering innovative technologies in aviation and missile systems.
Key Patents in Electric Aircraft Development
Hydrogen Propulsion Systems For Aircraft (EP3885267A1)
An aircraft propulsion system for zero-emission aviation that uses hydrogen fuel cells to power the aircraft. The propulsion system consists of a fan, motor, and hydrogen fuel cell stack.
The fuel cell generates 1 MW of electrical power to drive the motor and spin the fan. This eliminates the need for fossil fuel combustion engines and associated emissions.
The hydrogen fuel cells provide high power output suitable for aviation applications.
Hybrid Electric Engine Power Distribution (US2022396363A1)
Optimizing battery usage in hybrid electric aircraft engines by intelligently managing charging and discharging based on flight plans and real-time data.
The method involves determining waypoints for using electric power from the battery instead of fuel based on flight plan data and battery status. During flight, it continuously updates the waypoints based on received data.
This allows efficient electric-only operation during taxi, cruise, etc., while ensuring adequate battery charge for emergencies. It also charges the battery efficiently during cruise when it’s most efficient.
#4 ROLLS-ROYCE CORP
Headquarter: Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
Rolls-Royce Corporation develops and supplies power systems for aviation, maritime, and energy markets globally.
Key Patents in Electric Aircraft Development
Aircraft With Engine-Driven Permanent Magnet Generator (US2024007025A1)
An aircraft includes an internal combustion engine and an electrical power system. The electrical power system includes a permanent magnet machine and an inverter coupled to the permanent magnet machine.
The permanent magnet machine includes a stator and a rotor configured to rotate relative to the stator.
Cold Plate For High Density Power Converter (FR3120896A1)
Hybrid electric propulsion system for aircraft that uses a gas turbine engine along with an electric motor and converter to drive the propellers.
The system has improved cooling and condensation management for the high-power density converter. The cooling system uses a sloped cold plate with a pump to move coolant through it and extract heat from the converter.
This allows efficient cooling of the converter’s high heat load from a small area. The sloped plate drains condensation towards the sides.
#5 AIRBUS HELICOPTERS
Headquarter: Marignane, France
Airbus Helicopters is a global leader in helicopter design, manufacturing, and support for both civil and military applications.
Key Patents in Electric Aircraft Development
Process To Optimize Ground Noise Generated By A Rotorcraft (CA3070485C)
Method for reducing ground noise of hybrid rotorcraft by optimizing the power plant configuration when the aircraft is on the ground.
It involves selectively using electric motors versus engines to drive the rotors based on factors like engine locations, wind speed, and noise reduction needs.
When the aircraft is on the ground, the method starts by commanding engines in specific areas to spin the rotors. If noise reduction is desired in that area, the engines are stopped and electric motors take over.
This allows targeted engine shutdown for noise reduction without completely stopping the aircraft. The engines are then restarted for takeoff.
The method can also involve determining wind speed and regulating engine speeds.
Engine installation for aircraft, aircraft and method for operating such an installation (FR3130253A1)
The invention describes a power plant for aircraft, including drive systems with electric motors powered by fuel cell-equipped generators and a parallel energy storage system.
The storage system, featuring rechargeable devices and reversible converters, provides additional power during flight, enhancing efficiency and performance.
#6 INTELLIGENT ENERGY LTD
Headquarter: Loughborough, United Kingdom
Intelligent Energy Ltd pioneers hydrogen fuel cell technologies for portable power, automotive, and aerospace applications.
Key Patents in Electric Aircraft Development
Systems for configuring components of a UAV (GB2583344A)
An unmanned aerial vehicle system (UAV) 100 includes a mounting frame onto which at least a payload 30 is affixed.
And further includes a plurality of fuel cell stacks 50-n operable in a predefined configuration and wherein each of the plurality of stacks is housed in a separate package.
The UAV also includes one or more tanks 60 that are configured to supply hydrogen to the plurality of stacks.
A propulsion system is configured to receive an output power generated from the plurality of stacks.
A power controller 40 is configured to couple the plurality of stacks in the predefined configuration. The propulsion system may comprise motors 70 driving rotors 80.
Systems for configuring components of a UAV (GB2589280A)
A modular fuel cell power system for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that provides flexibility in power output and reliability.
The system uses multiple fuel cell stacks in series or parallel configurations that can be dynamically connected to optimize power output based on application needs.
This allows scaling power without increasing stack size. The stacks are individually packaged and mounted on the UAV frame.
A controller connects and balances the stacks in real-time. This provides redundancy and reliability by allowing a failed stack to be isolated and bypassed.
The controller also manages fuel supply, electrical loads, and backup power.
#7 HYUNDAI MOTOR CO
Headquarter: Seoul, South Korea
Hyundai Motor Co is a global automotive leader, exploring advanced mobility solutions, including innovations in electric and flying vehicles.
Key Patent in Electric Aircraft Development
Hybrid Air Mobility Vehicle (DE102021204525A1)
Hybrid air mobility vehicle that can fly long distances by efficiently using an engine and battery, while reducing noise in urban areas.
The vehicle has an engine, generator, propellers, battery, and controller. The controller manages power distribution between the engine and battery.
In flight, if the battery charge is low, the controller engages a clutch to mechanically connect the second propeller to the battery-powered generator, charging the battery while still flying.
This prevents anomalies when battery charge is low. It also allows the engine to produce more power through the generator when battery charge is low, maximizing engine efficiency.
This conserves battery charge for long flights. In urban areas, the controller can disable the engine and run only on battery power to reduce noise.
#8 TENERGY CO LTD
Headquarter: Fremont, California, USA
Tenergy Co Ltd provides innovative energy solutions, including advanced battery technologies for diverse applications.
Key Patent in Electric Aircraft Development
Engine for hybrid power supply for drones (KR102234721B1)
The present invention relates to an engine for a hybrid power supply for a drone capable of reducing the weight of a drone by integrating an engine unit and a power generation unit integrally and combining a battery and improving output and efficiency.
#9 SAFRAN AIRCRAFT ENGINES
Headquarter: Courcouronnes, France
Safran Aircraft Engines designs and manufactures high-performance engines for civil and military aircraft.
Key Patent in Electric Aircraft Development
Method And Device For Optimizing The Electrical Energy Of A Hybrid-Motorized Aircraft (FR3123051A1)
A method to optimize energy consumption in hybrid electric aircraft by recovering energy during gliding phases when the turbomachines are off.
The method involves using the reversible electric motors associated with the turbomachines to generate electrical energy during gliding flight by autorotating the fans or rotary wings.
This energy is stored in onboard batteries. This allows recovering energy during gliding to supplement the turbomachines’ thermal energy.
#10 UNIVERSIDAD REY JUAN CARLOS
Headquarter: Madrid, Spain
Universidad Rey Juan Carlos engages in cutting-edge research and development in the field of aerospace engineering and technology.
Key Patent in Electric Aircraft Development
Solar Powered Ultralight Aircraft (ES2928138A1)
Solar powered ultralight aircraft. An aircraft that uses solar energy as a propulsion system is described and that, in addition, meets various design criteria (legal, dimensional and energy) and flight characteristics that ascribe the aircraft of the present invention within the ultralight solar aviation sector.
#11 BETA AIR LLC
Headquarter: Burlington, Vermont, USA
Beta Air LLC is advancing the development of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for sustainable urban air mobility.
Key Patent in Electric Aircraft Development
Systems And Methods For Optimizing A Controlled Flight Plan (US2023169874A1)
Optimizing flight plans for electric aircraft to enable efficient and safe airspace utilization.
The system receives measured flight data from the aircraft, identifies requirements based on that data, generates a desired flight plan, and optimizes it to account for battery energy.
This allows customized flight plans tailored to electric aircraft constraints like battery life. The system also facilitates communication with ATC and other aircraft to coordinate safe separations.
#12 UNIVERSITÉ MOHAMMED V DE RABAT
Headquarter: Rabat, Morocco
Université Mohammed V de Rabat is a key player in research and development, contributing to aerospace innovation through academic partnerships.
Key Patent in Electric Aircraft Development
Electric and hybrid propulsion for twin-engine aircraft (MA46493A1)
An airplane with an electric propulsion system an airplane that consists of a fuselage and a wing system.
Electric propulsion is provided by open rotor reactors and an electricity generation system located in the small fins in the front of the aircraft above the cockpit.
The propulsion will be carried out by the thrust in the fins and also by the reactors which is at the back of the plane.
#13 GULFSTREAM AEROSPACE CORP
Headquarter: Savannah, Georgia, USA
Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation is renowned for designing and manufacturing advanced business jets, setting benchmarks in aviation technology.
Key Patent in Electric Aircraft Development
Hybrid Jet Electric Aircraft (EP3907136A1)
Aircraft propulsion system that provides supplemental thrust during climb using electric motors in addition to the main turbine engines.
The system has a controller that engages the electric motors during climb based on a climb request signal and disengages them during cruise based on a cruise request signal.
This allows utilizing the electric motors during takeoff and initial climb to reduce load on the turbine engines, improving efficiency and performance. T
he electric motors can then be disengaged for cruise when turbine-only thrust is sufficient.
#14 JOBY AERO INC
Headquarter: Santa Cruz, California, USA
Joby Aero Inc is a leader in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, shaping the future of urban air mobility.
Key Patent in Electric Aircraft Development
Electric Power System Architecture And Fault Tolerant Vtol Aircraft Using Same (WO2022115132A1)
Redundant power system for electric aircrafts that enables reliable flight with backup power sources and redundant actuators.
The aircraft has dual-wound motors with separate windings connected to two batteries. If a battery fails, power can still be supplied to the remaining motor windings.
The aircraft also has redundant flight actuators and control surfaces. A flight control system manages power distribution based on battery states to balance load.
This allows the aircraft to continue flying if a battery fails.
#15 DEUTSCHES ZENTRUM FÜR LUFT- UND RAUMFAHRT E.V (DLR)
Headquarter: Cologne, Germany
The German Aerospace Center (DLR) conducts cutting-edge research and development in aerospace, energy, and transport technologies.
Key Patent in Electric Aircraft Development
Method For Operating An Aircraft According To An Operating Mode (FR3120053A1)
Operating method for aircraft with multiple energy sources like kerosene, electric batteries, hydrogen fuel cells, and methanol tanks.
The method involves defining operating modes that specify how to use the energy sources to power the aircraft.
For example, one mode might use kerosene and hydrogen for high power, another mode uses just batteries for short ranges, and a third mode uses hydrogen and empty kerosene tanks.
The mode selection and power allocation are based on factors like flight duration, load, and availability of each source.
This allows flexible, safe, and efficient operation using the best source for each phase.
#16 TUSAŞ MOTOR SANAYİ A.Ş (TEI)
Headquarter: Eskişehir, Turkey
TEI (TUSAŞ Engine Industries Inc.) is a leading company in the design and production of aerospace engines, serving both civil and defence sectors.
Key Patent in Electric Aircraft Development
A Series Parallel Hybrid Engine System (TR202101138A2)
Hybrid engine system for aircraft that combines an internal combustion engine and electric motor without increasing length.
The system has the electric motor integrated adjacent to the gearbox. The engine shaft connects to the gearbox output and propeller. The motor shaft connects to the gearbox input.
A clutch engages when needed to let the motor drive the propeller. This allows the motor to charge the battery or power the propeller without extending length.
#17 AUDI AG
Headquarter: Ingolstadt, Germany
Audi AG, a leader in automotive engineering, is extending its expertise into advanced mobility solutions, including electric and flying vehicles.
Key Patent in Electric Aircraft Development
Mhev Operating Strategy For Optimized Driving Dynamics (US2022024444A1)
Optimizing the performance and longevity of 48V mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) systems during dynamic driving conditions like racing.
It avoids battery overheating and thermal derating by reducing recuperation power during braking and increasing generator mode during traction.
This balances charge and allows full boost power over longer periods. The recuperation limit and generator power reduction scale with boost demand.
#18 THINKWARE CORP
Headquarter: Seoul, South Korea
Thinkware Corporation specialises in developing advanced electronic systems, including technologies for aerospace and mobility solutions.
Key Patent in Electric Aircraft Development
Aerial Vehicle And Control Method Thereof, Using Hybrid Distributed Propulsion System (US2023312116A1)
Aerial vehicle with hybrid propulsion system for urban air mobility that can switch between electric and internal combustion engines for optimal performance in urban and rural areas.
The vehicle has a power generation unit that consumes fuel to generate electricity. A battery unit is charged from the power generation unit or externally.
Multiple fan modules receive power from the battery or generation unit.
A control unit selects between the power sources based on flight stage and location to balance efficiency, range, and noise.
#19 THE AEROSPACE CORP
Headquarter: El Segundo, California, USA
The Aerospace Corporation is a non-profit organisation providing technical expertise and innovation for space and defence systems.
Key Patent in Electric Aircraft Development
Long Range Endurance Aero Platform System (US2021253240A1)
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that provides increased operational flight endurance and efficiency.
The UAV includes a power generation system, which includes an internal combustion engine and one or more batteries (batteries).
The power generation system is configured to generate power for propulsion of the UAV. The internal combustion engine is configured to power a lift propeller, generating vertical lift of the UAV.
And the batteries are configured to power a micro-propeller assembly, propelling the UAV in a forward direction or multiple additional directions.
#20 UNIV BEIHANG
Headquarter: Beijing, China
Beihang University is a leading institution for aerospace and aviation research, contributing to global technological advancements.
Key Patent in Electric Aircraft Development
Distributed electric/power generation integrated propulsion system based on shaftless rim magnetic suspension fan (CN114837970A)
Integrated distributed propulsion system for aircraft that uses shaftless rim magnetic levitation fans to enable both propulsion and wind power generation.
The fans can switch between propeller and wind turbine modes based on altitude. The fans have bidirectional blades for reversible operation.
In cruising flight at high altitudes, some fans convert to wind power generation mode using a bidirectional inverter to charge the battery.
This recovers some of the wind energy instead of just using propulsion. The shaftless design using magnetic bearings allows high rotation speeds for improved efficiency.
A controller manages the power generation and propulsion functions.
What’s Next for Electric Aviation?
The future of aviation is set to take flight with electric aircraft leading the charge. As industry giants and trailblazing startups alike push the boundaries of innovation, the race toward cleaner skies has never been more exciting.
From advancements in battery-powered propulsion to revolutionary aerodynamic designs, the next generation of aircraft promises to transform how we travel.
The adoption of electric aviation will tackle key challenges such as emissions, noise pollution, and fuel dependency, paving the way for a more sustainable industry.
But with so many innovators vying for the skies, how do you keep track of the key players driving this revolution?
Let’s navigate the forefront of electric aviation together.
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