NASA’s Next-Generation All-Electric Aircraft

The Electrified Powertrain Flight Demonstration (EPFD) project conducts ground and flight tests of electrified aircraft propulsion (EAP) technologies to enable a new generation of electric-powered aircraft. NASA is collaborating with industry partners to demonstrate these technologies by using existing aircraft that will be modified and flown with EAP systems and components.

EPFD also will assist industry in addressing key technical barriers and risks associated with integrating EAP systems into airliners, as well as help identify and evaluate new standards for future EAP aircraft. EAP technologies offer innovative solutions to making flight more sustainable — including lighter and more efficient motors, electronics, and materials that can help reduce emission levels and improve fuel efficiency.

The EPFD project will test these technologies for future use in smaller, regional aircraft with fewer than 100 passengers, as well as single-aisle commercial airliners designed for around 180 passengers and operating longer-distance flights.

Through the EPFD project, NASA seeks to introduce EAP systems to the U.S. commercial fleet by conducting at least two flight demonstrations within the next five years and help transition these technologies into commercial products within the 2030 to 2035 time frame.