Collins Aerospace begins hybrid-electric powertrain testing for EU project

Collins Aerospace has started testing electric motor drive systems for the European Union's Clean Aviation SWITCH project at its facility in Rockford, Illinois. The testing represents a step toward demonstrating hybrid-electric technology on a full-scale Pratt & Whitney GTF engine.

The tests are being conducted at "The Grid," Collins' electric power systems laboratory, where integrated lab tests of hybrid-electric powertrain subsystems are taking place. These subsystems include motor generators, controllers and power distribution systems. Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney are both RTX (NYSE: RTX) businesses.

The SWITCH project focuses on demonstrating hybrid-electric technologies to optimize engine efficiency across different flight phases for future short- and medium-range aircraft. Key subsystems validated at The Grid, including two megawatt-class motor generators, will be integrated within a hybrid-electric Pratt & Whitney GTF engine demonstrator in the next testing phase.

"The start of powertrain subsystem testing is a key step towards demonstrating the potential of applying more electric systems to future commercial aircraft," said Kristin Smith, vice president of Electric Power Systems at Collins Aerospace.

The powertrain components were developed across multiple European facilities. Collins Aerospace designed and produced megawatt-class electric motors and controllers at its Solihull, UK facility, while power distribution components were designed in Nördlingen, Germany. GKN Aerospace developed the high voltage electrical wiring interconnection system in Papendrecht, Netherlands.

SWITCH is a collaborative effort involving MTU Aero Engines AG, Pratt & Whitney, Collins Aerospace, GKN Aerospace, Airbus and several European research institutions. The project is funded by the European Union under grant agreement 101102006.

RTX reported 2025 sales of more than $88 billion and employs more than 180,000 people globally, according to the press release.

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