Evolito to Develop Electric Wheel Taxi System with Airbus and UK Government Support
Oxfordshire based Evolito Limited has been selected to develop a cutting-edge electric wheel taxi system as part of a UK-backed aerospace consortium, in a move aimed at reducing emissions and operating costs during aircraft ground operations.
The initiative, known as Project SONATA (System Optimisation of Non-Propulsive Energy in Aircraft Taxi Technologies and Architectures), brings together major industry and research partners including Airbus, the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI), Innovate UK, the University of Southampton, Compound Semiconductor Applications Catapult, Magnomatics, Drive System Design and DePe Gear.
Under the programme, Evolito will develop a low-speed, high-torque electric motor based on its axial flux technology. Designed for integration within an aircraft’s landing gear, the system aims to enable aircraft to taxi without using their main engines, significantly cutting fuel burn, noise and carbon emissions during ground movements.
Driving Lower-Emission Ground Operations
Evolito’s axial flux motor technology is known for its high power and torque density. The motor being developed under Project SONATA is expected to deliver around 56 Nm/kg of torque and a peak output of approximately 350 kW, meeting the demanding performance and weight requirements of commercial aviation.
Engine-off taxi capability has the potential to reduce taxi-related emissions by up to 47 per cent, supporting airports and airlines in their efforts to decarbonise operations. The project aligns with the UK Government’s broader Jet Zerostrategy to achieve net zero aviation emissions.
Strengthening the UK’s Aerospace Leadership
Dr Chris Harris, CEO of Evolito, said the programme would extend the performance envelope of the company’s electric propulsion systems while reinforcing the UK’s position at the forefront of sustainable aerospace innovation.
UK Industry Minister Chris McDonald highlighted the importance of the initiative in supporting high-skilled jobs and maintaining Britain’s global leadership in advanced aerospace technologies.
Project SONATA builds on previous ATI-backed research into energy-efficient aircraft systems and electric propulsion, further developing domestic capabilities in next-generation aviation technologies.
The post Evolito to Develop Electric Wheel Taxi System with Airbus and UK Government Support appeared first on UK Aviation News.