Airbus and Toshiba Collaborate on Superconducting Technologies for Hydrogen-Powered Aircraft
Key Ideas
  • Airbus UpNext and Toshiba Energy Systems collaborate to develop a two-megawatt superconducting motor for hydrogen-powered aircraft, aiming to enhance energy efficiency and performance.
  • Hydrogen-powered aircraft are integral to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 in the aviation industry.
  • The partnership combines Airbus's hydrogen propulsion expertise with Toshiba's superconductivity knowledge, driving advancements in aerospace superconducting motor technology.
  • The collaboration, signed during the Japan Aerospace 2024 event, signifies the first milestone for Airbus Tech Hub Japan, focusing on innovation and collaboration in the aerospace sector.
Airbus UpNext, a subsidiary of Airbus, and Toshiba Energy Systems & Solutions Corporation have joined forces in Tokyo to explore superconducting technologies for future hydrogen-powered aircraft. The collaboration aims to co-develop a two-megawatt superconducting motor that utilizes -253°C liquid hydrogen for fuel and cooling. This partnership is crucial in advancing superconducting motor technology for aerospace applications, boosting energy efficiency and performance in electric propulsion systems. Airbus's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 in the aviation industry aligns with the potential of hydrogen-powered aircraft. By combining Toshiba's expertise in superconductivity and motor design with Airbus's innovative approach in hydrogen propulsion, the collaboration seeks to drive the decarbonization of aviation. The signing of the agreement at the Japan Aerospace 2024 event represents a significant milestone for Airbus Tech Hub Japan, supporting innovation and collaboration within the aerospace industry. Both companies have a strong foundation in superconducting technologies, with Airbus conducting tests through its Cryoprop demonstrator program and Toshiba having developed a two-megawatt superconducting motor prototype in 2022. This partnership signifies a positive step towards shaping the future of flight through sustainable and efficient superconducting technologies.
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