PROJECT ZERO BY AGUSTAWESTLAND

Electric Tilt-Rotor Aircraft

The first electric tilt-rotor aircraft funded by AgustaWestland (a Finmeccanica Company) is the result of an impressive program, named “Project Zero”. It was orchestrated by multiple Finmeccanica Group subsidiaries, teaming up with proactive international (Italy, U.K., U.S.A. and Japan) companies outside of the traditional aerospace industry. The “Project Zero” is the perfect proof that having multiple contributors does not necessarily imply disorganization. In fact, each supplier brought its fine expertise on various subjects to produce a completely electric demonstrator. Stile Bertone brought the style and aerodynamic touch, Lola Composite manufactured the carbon graphite exterior structure, minimizing weight and increasing strength, EMA brought the retractable landing gear, nacelle tilting mechanism and elevons, etc. Yes, you read correctly: the aircraft’s entirety, from control systems to flight control and landing gear actuators, are based on electricity powering. This great achievement implies that a hydraulic system is no longer needed. Designed and produced in only 6 months, tested in 2011 and 2012, the demonstrator helps understand what advanced rotorcraft technology AgustaWestland can deliver and what the future will have in store.