Flight Design, GmbH, is developing from a standard Rotax 914 engine, an electric augmented powerplant that will produce an extra 40 hp for short (less than three minute) bursts of power. The company has "specifically developed for this task" an electric motor that is coupled to the prop hub through a belt drive. The goal of the concept is to produce an engine capable of fulfilling the role of a 160-to 180-hp normally aspirated engine without the larger engine's emissions. Mated to the turbocharged Rotax, the Hybrid Concept Engine will not readily lose power at altitude, flying efficiently in cruise, while enjoying the electric motor's extra boost during takeoff and initial climb. Batteries for the unit are based on Lithium Iron Phosphate chemistry and are quick-chargeable. Operation of the engine is designed for one-lever control, with a controller module selecting thrust from the electric motor only when the reciprocating engine is operating at more than 90 percent above available power. Otherwise, the reciprocating engine works to recharge the motor's batteries in flight, which causes "negligible" resistance on the crankshaft, according to the company.
This is a companion discussion topic for the original entry at https://www.avweb.com/air-shows-events/hybrid-engine-concept-from-flight-design