How Hybrid Propulsion Systems are Changing the Game for UAVs

Recently, there has been a surge in hybrid propulsion adoption, which refers to vehicles that are powered by two different propulsion sources. For example, you may have noticed an increase in the number of hybrid cars on the road, or charging stations at car parks, and so on. 

However, if you are not sure what hybrid propulsion systems are, then it can be hard to fully understand the impact they are having on the transportation sector at large. In this article, we will provide you with more insight into hybrid propulsion systems and how they are changing the game specifically in the world of uncrewed aerial vehicles, or UAVs. Read on to find out more! 

Hybrid Propulsion Systems: Everything You Need To Know. 

What are Hybrid Propulsion Systems? 

The term “propulsion” refers to the action of pushing or driving something forward. Propulsion systems, therefore, refer to the part(s) of a UAV that generate power and move it forward. This could include: 

• Internal Combustible Engines (ICE)

• Gas Turbine Engines

• Electric Propulsion Systems (EPS)

Hybrid propulsion systems use two or more sources of propulsion in a singular design. For example, they tend to combine both internal combustible engines (ICE) with electric propulsion systems (EPS). You can find out more about how these systems work here. 

This technology is most often deployed in cars. For example, there are over 8.5 million hybrid vehicles in use in the USA today. An ePropelled hybrid UAV uses a combustion engine and a combined starter generator and population motor. 

What are the Benefits of Hybrid Propulsion Systems? 

Improved fuel efficiency. As hybrid propulsion systems rely on both ICEs and an electric battery, they use less fuel than traditional UAVs. This is because these aircraft can switch between the two power sources when necessary, lowering both their carbon footprint and fuel consumption.

Improved cost efficiency. The rising cost of fuel in the USA means that many motorists are looking for ways to cut down on the costs of driving. Purchasing vehicles with hybrid propulsion systems can help in this regard because they use less fuel overall. Not only that, but it only costs around 17 cents per kilowatt-hour to charge an electric-powered vehicle (1 kH covers roughly two to three miles of travel). 

In some cases, motorists using this kind of vehicle may be eligible for tax rebate or rebates. However, this can vary depending on the type of vehicle you are driving and your location.

Enhanced performance. UAVs or other forms of transport that are powered by hybrid propulsion systems also benefit from enhanced performance. This is because the aircraft can switch between the two power sources depending on the conditions, and the electric motor can provide an additional energy boost when necessary. 

Reduced environmental impact. Hybrid propulsion UAvs, are much more eco-friendly than traditional drones. This, again, can be attributed to a lower carbon footprint and reduced fuel dependency. This reduces the demand for waning fossil fuels, especially if the electric motor is heavily utilized. 

How Hybrid Propulsion Systems Are Changing the Game in Transportation

While we may have grown accustomed to spotting hybrid cars or even buses on the road, studies suggest we will continue to see these systems used more heavily in other spaces, too, including aviation. 

In fact, a recent study found that the continued development of hybrid propulsion systems for use within aircraft could help to: 

• Increase global aircraft efficiency 

• Increase aircraft reliability 

• Increase aircraft power distribution 

• Lower emissions 

• Support noise reduction 

Growing dependency and interest in hybrid propulsion systems is also fueling (pun intended) studies into the development of ‘new’ electric batteries that can be installed in these vehicles. Here, the core aim is to design batteries that are lighter and more powerful, with lower charging times than the batteries currently in use today. 

In the future, some experts predict that this will be the primary source of power for all vehicles. This is because it is a little more reliable than a solely electric model, while minimizing the negative side-effects associated with fuel usage. 

ePropelled and Hybrid Propulsion Systems

At ePropelled, we often use hybrid power solutions when designing uncrewed aerial, ground, and surface vehicles (UAVs). 

You can find hybrid propulsion systems in autonomous vehicles, electric golf carts, electric people movers, and electric utility vehicles.

This is something that we will continue to invest heavily in moving forward, especially when it comes to promoting stronger green initiatives across the board. Right now, our patented systems allow our customers to lower their carbon footprints, emissions and transport-related expenses while also maximizing efficiency. 

However, while you may already be familiar with hybrid propulsion systems, it is clear that their impact on society is only going to grow in the years to come. This is largely thanks to ongoing scientific research and the work of companies like ePropelled, who are pioneering their usage across various applications related to UAVs. 

Key Takeaways

• Hybrid propulsion systems use two or more sources of propulsion in a singular design.

• Hybrid propulsion systems typically combine an ICE with an electric battery. 

• Hybrid propulsion systems bring forth many benefits, including improved fuel efficiency, improved cost efficiency, enhanced performance, reduced environmental impact, and reduced noise pollution.

• Future innovations in hybrid propulsion systems will lead to more common usage across all industries, especially within the aviation 

• Developers are currently focusing on ways to improve battery efficiency and charging speeds 

In short, hybrid propulsion systems are changing the game for UAVs. They are providing the opportunity to reduce the impact that these aircraft have on the planet. In addition to this, it can also prove useful when it comes to improving efficiency and lowering running costs.