Capgemini and Ascendance: Electrifying the Skies
The strategic partnership between Capgemini and Ascendance marks a significant milestone in the electrification of aviation, drawing parallels with the rapid advancements seen in the EV sector.
The collaboration aims to transform air travel by developing sustainable aviation solutions powered by hybrid electric propulsion technology.
Hybrid electric propulsion: bridging the gap
Much like hybrid EVs paved the way for full electrification in the automotive industry, Ascendance's STERNA system represents a crucial stepping stone towards fully electric aircraft.
The modular hybrid propulsion system enables the simultaneous use of multiple energy sources, mirroring the flexibility seen in modern plug-in hybrid EVs.
Jean-Christophe Lambert, CEO and co-founder of Ascendance highlights this technology's importance: "Their expertise in engineering, data, and industrialisation is crucial to accelerating the commercialisation of our hybrid propulsion solution STERNA and industrialisation of our aircraft ATEA."
ATEA: The "Tesla" of the skies
Ascendance's ATEA aircraft, powered by the STERNA system, can be likened to Tesla's impact on the automotive world. As a next-generation Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft, ATEA promises to transform regional air travel with its low-carbon, low-noise profile.
The first flight of the ATEA prototype, scheduled for 2025, will be a landmark event comparable to Tesla's early prototype unveilings.
The milestone demonstrates the viability of electric propulsion in aviation, potentially catalysing widespread adoption across the industry.
Accelerating development and industrialisation
Capgemini's role in the partnership mirrors the support that major tech companies have provided to EV startups.
Since 2021, Capgemini has been lending its expertise to Ascendance, helping refine various technical disciplines crucial for electric aviation.
William Rozé, CEO of Capgemini Engineering, highlights the shift in focus: "After a successful first phase to support their innovative product development roadmap, we are now pivoting from technology demonstrations to industrialisation."
Battery technology: The heart of electric aviation
Battery advancements have been crucial for EVs and are equally vital for electric aircraft.
Capgemini's support in electric battery development for Ascendance echoes the partnerships between EV manufacturers and battery technology companies.
Connected services and digital continuity
The partnership's emphasis on connected services and digital continuity reflects the tech-centric approach of modern EVs.
These elements are crucial for optimising performance, enhancing safety and improving the overall user experience in electric aviation.
Scaling production: Lessons from the EV industry
The challenges of scaling production for electric aircraft mirror those EV manufacturers face.
Capgemini's expertise in industrial ramp-up will be crucial in helping Ascendance meet the growing demand for sustainable aviation solutions, much like how established automakers have assisted other EV startups in scaling their operations.
Environmental impact and industry transformation
The aviation industry's contribution to 13.9% of transport emissions highlights the urgent need for sustainable solutions. It parallels the motivation behind the EV revolution in the automotive sector.
Ascendance's approach, focusing on hybrid electric propulsion, offers a pragmatic path to decarbonisation, similar to the phased approach in the automotive industry's transition to electric mobility.
A new era of sustainable mobility
The Capgemini-Ascendance partnership represents a significant step towards a future where air travel is as environmentally friendly as the latest EVs.
As Jean-Christophe states: "Together, we will contribute to making sustainable aviation more accessible, leveraging innovations that will reduce the carbon footprint of the aviation sector while offering new possibilities for the mobility of tomorrow."
The collaboration aims to transform the aviation industry and contribute to global efforts to reduce emissions and achieve net-zero goals, mirroring the broader impact of the EV revolution on sustainable transportation.
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