Airbus Helicopters unveiled a high-speed helicopter concept, codenamed “Racer” (for rapid and cost-effective rotorcraft), today at the Paris Air Show. It is being developed as part of the Clean Sky 2 European research program. Assembly of the first prototype, which will have a hybrid metallic-composite airframe, is scheduled for 2019, with first flight in 2020.
The helicopter will have a main rotor, two lateral pusher rotors and a joined “box wing” configuration. Racer is aimed at markets such as search and rescue, passenger transport and possible military applications. One of the goals is to offer 50 percent more speed than conventional rotorcraft with additional cost limited to 25 percent. Racer will cruise at 220 knots, although it will be able to fly at higher speeds.
To reduce fuel consumption and increase range, its two Safran Helicopter Engines RTM322s will be equipped with a new electrically powered “stop and start” system. This “eco mode” concept will allow a pilot to “pause” an engine while in cruise, generating fuel savings of approximately 15 percent and longer range. An auxiliary electric smart motor will provide additional power when needed for acceleration, landing or autorotation, said Safran Aircraft Engines. Box-wing architecture has several advantages: it improves the aerodynamic efficiency, enables better integration of the landing gear, and the pusher rotor will improve safety for passengers.
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