VerdeGo Debuts VH-3 Hybrid-Electric Powerplant, Unveils SMA SR-305-VDG Engine with Safran Subsidiary, Attracts AFWERX Interest
Why It MattersThe collaboration signals growing defense and manufacturer interest in hybrid-electric propulsion as a viable power source for advanced air mobility aircraft.
VerdeGo has introduced its VH-3 hybrid-electric powerplant, a system that converts the chemical energy of liquid fuels — including Jet-A, JP-8, SAF, and e-fuels — into electricity for aviation applications. The VH-3 integrates a reciprocating aero-engine, power electronics, control systems, and thermal management systems to deliver efficient, long-duration energy output.
Following more than two years of joint development, VerdeGo and SMA Engines, a subsidiary of Safran, have unveiled the SMA SR-305-VDG, a derivative of SMA's SR-305 diesel aircraft engine optimized specifically for VerdeGo's hybrid-electric powerplants. The new variant offers increased power output with reduced mass and volume compared to its predecessor, and is produced exclusively for integration into VerdeGo's VH-3 system.
The VH-3 powerplant has drawn the attention of AFWERX, a joint initiative of the United States Air Force and Space Force. AFWERX operates three core arms: AFVentures, which executes the Small Business Program for the Department of the Air Force; Spark, which addresses internal innovation and education within the USAF; and Prime, which evaluates commercial Advanced Air Mobility concepts for compatibility with U.S. Department of Defense objectives. AFWERX Prime vets manned and unmanned electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft as well as electric and hybrid-electric propulsion.
