By Anshuman Tripathy
(Reuters) -Horizon Aircraft has agreed to buy Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PT6A engine for its hybrid vertical takeoff aircraft, it said on Tuesday.
The Canada-based electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOL) firm will integrate the engine, which powers thousands of commuter, agricultural, and business aircraft globally, into its Cavorite X7 aircraft.
While U.S. air-taxi firms like Joby and Archer Aviation have put much of their focus on all-electric models, Horizon is betting on hybrid-electric technology.
Horizon is also planning to produce the aircraft for customers including emergency services and defense companies, apart from commercial operators.
Hybrid aircraft offer operational advantages over all-electric designs, including using warm air from the engine for de-icing and cabin heating, CEO Brandon Robinson told Reuters.
The aircraft’s battery array can recharge en route within minutes, allowing for a full charge during the landing phase, he said.
The Cavorite X7 can carry up to seven passengers and travel up to 800 km.
Horizon plans to have certified aircraft in production prior to 2030.
EVTOL firms, including air taxi operators, are racing to secure approvals, strengthen their supplier base and bring their vehicles to market, aiming to meet the growing demand for faster, more sustainable urban transportation.
Pratt & Whitney Canada is a subsidiary of U.S.-based defense contractor RTX.
Horizon Aircraft has a market value of about $150 million as of its closing price on Monday, according to data compiled by LSEG.
(Reporting by Anshuman Tripathy in Bengaluru; Editing by Sahal Muhammed)
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