Safran signs an agreement with CAE to develop an electrified version of the Piper Archer® aircraft

Safran Electrical & Power will supply the electric smart motor for the electrified Piper Archer, a derivative of the existing and certified Archer^® platform from Piper Aircraft. CAE and Piper have agreed to work together on an electrical conversion kit to convert two-thirds of CAE’s training fleet and for third-party operators.

The ENGINeUS ^TM product line includes a broad range of electric motors with power outputs from single digit to 500 kW. The ENGINeUS ^TM 100, which will equip the electrified Piper Archer^®, delivers 150 kW maximum at take-off power and features a fully integrated motor controller within the machine. The thermal management is provided by an optimized air-cooling system. The certification of the electric motor is planned for 2023.

“We are proud to partner with CAE, and to share with CAE the same vision for sustainability with a clear goal to contribute to the decarbonization of aviation using electric propulsion. This new contract confirms the strong market fit of our ENGINeUS^TM electric smart motor product line. In particular, the ENGINeUS™100 has become the go-to reference for smaller general aviation platforms, addressing private pilot aircraft, professional flight training aircraft, air taxis and personal aircraft,” said Bruno Bellanger, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Power division at Safran Electrical & Power.

“Developing green aviation solutions is a team effort, and CAE is thrilled to have Safran onboard for the development of our electric conversion kit for the Piper Archer^® aircraft,” said Nick Leontidis, CAE’s Group President, Civil Aviation. “The ENGINeUS™100 electric smart motor was a clear choice for our aircraft, not only because it met all our requirements, but also because it is backed by Safran, an industry leader in electric propulsion.”