Airbus and Toshiba collaborate on superconducting motor

According to Airbus, hydrogen-powered aircraft are seen as a promising solution to decarbonising the aviation sector and achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

Superconducting technologies offer an advantage for these aircraft as they use -253°C liquid hydrogen as a fuel and as a coolant for electric propulsion systems. Cryogenic technology could allow for a nearly unimpaired power transmission within the electric systems of the aircraft, thereby improving their energy efficiency and performance. 

In a statement, Dr Grzegorz Ombach, Airbus senior vice president and head of disruptive R&T, said: “Partnering with Toshiba presents a unique opportunity to push beyond the limitations of today’s partial superconducting and conventional electrical motors. Through this collaboration, we aim to deliver a breakthrough technology that could unlock new design possibilities, in particular for Airbus' future hydrogen-powered aircraft. This partnership represents a natural and essential step in advancing superconducting motor technology to meet the needs of the aerospace industry.”