H55 adopts Safran motors for Bristell B23 Energic

For years, aircraft manufacturer Bristell and electric aircraft technology provider H55 have been working on an electric aircraft for flight schools. Now, Safran is joining as a new partner, supplying the appropriate electric motor. There are also advancements in the battery system.

As early as 2019, we reported on the first test flight of the Bristell Energic using technology from H55. Since then, significant progress has been made, and the two-seater electric aircraft, which is soon to enter series production, is now known as the Bristell B23 Energic. It adopts the nomenclature of the Bristell B23, a conventionally powered aircraft designed for flight schools.

The partners are currently finalising the supply chain for the new electric aircraft. Joining the project is Safran, an international high-tech group from France specialising in aerospace (propulsion, equipment, and interiors), defence, and space.

Safran Electrical & Power, a subsidiary of the group, will supply its ENGINeUS electric aviation motor, certified last year by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This motor will be integrated into H55’s battery-electric powertrain system for the Bristell B23 Energic. Safran Electrical & Power will support both the prototype and series production phases from 2027 onwards and will also provide dedicated customer service, according to the company.

The design of the ENGINeUS 100, which can be integrated into all powertrain architectures, includes power and control electronics directly embedded within the motor. It delivers a maximum power output of 125 kW with a power-to-weight ratio of 5 kW/kg.

This is what the electric powertrain will look like

Image: Safran

Certifiable battery modules delivered

The Bristell B23 Energic has also cleared another milestone: H55 has delivered compliant, certifiable battery modules to BRM Aero, the parent company of Bristell, to advance the next phase of the fully electric aircraft’s integration.

“The delivery of conforming modules marks a key step toward commercializing the Bristell B23 Energic,” said Rob Solomon, CEO of H55. “With strong market demand already materializing, we are now moving decisively from development into scaled execution.”

“The Bristell B23 Energic represents a major step forward in making electric aviation a practical reality for pilot training,” said Martin Bristela, CEO of BRM Aero. “Working with H55 allows us to integrate a propulsion solution that meets both certification and operational requirements, bringing us closer to delivering a commercially viable electric aircraft.”

safran-group.com, h55.ch (battery modules)