Rolls Royce’s Spirit of Innovation aircraft has claimed the spot as the world’s fastest all-electric vehicle, with the aircraft setting three new world records.

Awaiting final verification from the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI), the aircraft reached a top speed of 345.4 mph over distance, breaking the existing record by 132mph. It also has a long-distance speed record and faster climb records in its sights. During its record-breaking runs, the aircraft clocked up a maximum speed of 387.4 mph making the Spirit of Innovation the world’s fastest all-electric vehicle.

The aircraft was propelled on its record-breaking runs by a 400kW (500hp) electric powertrain, and the most power-dense propulsion battery pack assembled in aerospace. The Spirit of Innovation is part of the ACCEL or Accelerating the Electrification of Flight project. Half of the project’s funding is provided by the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI), in partnership with the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy and Innovate UK.

Warren East, CEO, Rolls-Royce, said: “The advanced battery and propulsion technology developed for this programme has exciting applications for the advanced air mobility market. Following the world’s focus on the need for action at COP26, this is another milestone that will help make ‘jet zero’ a reality and supports our ambitions to deliver the technology breakthroughs society needs to decarbonise transport across air, land and sea.”

Share Story: