French startup VoltAero is revolutionizing regional aviation with its innovative Cassio 330 aircraft, which seamlessly integrates hybrid-electric and hydrogen propulsion systems.
This groundbreaking approach allows operators to embrace new technology without requiring significant changes to their current operations. VoltAero recently unveiled its prototype Cassio 330 at the Paris Air Show, with plans to conduct its maiden flight by the end of the year and achieve certification by 2024. The startup is already working on the development of larger six- and 12-seat versions of the aircraft.
The Cassio 330 is equipped with a hybrid module that combines an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, both driving a single pusher propeller through a gearbox. During ground operations, takeoff, climb, and landing, the aircraft relies on quiet electric power, with a range of up to 150 km (95 mi.) using battery-only power. For longer ranges of up to 1,200 km, and to recharge the batteries during flight, the combustion engine comes into play.
VoltAero’s integration of the hybrid module allows the Cassio to be certified as a single-engine aircraft, simplifying its adoption by customers. Jean Botti, co-founder and CEO of VoltAero and former Airbus chief technology officer, emphasized the significance of this design approach.
To power the Cassio 330, VoltAero has partnered with Kawasaki Motors, which will supply a four-cylinder piston engine based on the engine used in the Kawasaki Nina H2R motorcycle. The electric motor is provided by Safran, while Electric Power Systems supplies the battery, Duc Helice delivers the propeller, and Avidyne contributes the cockpit avionics.
Looking ahead, Kawasaki is developing a more powerful six-cylinder engine for the larger 12-seat version of the Cassio, with plans to modify it to run on hydrogen. VoltAero intends to conduct flight tests of the hydrogen engine in 2024 using the first Cassio 330 prototype.
A major breakthrough comes in the form of the Cassio’s zero-emission capability, which will be achieved through the use of liquid hydrogen stored in a non-circular carbon-fiber tank. This technological advancement represents a significant step forward for VoltAero.
VoltAero’s incremental approach to introducing new technology through a clean-sheet aircraft design is aimed at reducing costs and risks for both the company and operators. By combining hybrid-electric and hydrogen propulsion systems, the Cassio 330 demonstrates the potential for cleaner and more sustainable regional aviation.
