EU selects ATR to lead low-emission regional aviation projects
September 9, 2025
ATR has been chosen by the European Union’s Clean Aviation Joint Undertaking to lead a pair of pioneering projects aimed at shaping the next generation of low-emission regional aircraft.
The move will put the Toulouse-based manufacturer out in front in the push to develop more sustainable aviation technology, with the goal of flying the world’s first hybrid-electric regional aircraft by 2030.
ATR develops hybrid-electric propulsion technology
Under Clean Aviation’s Ultra-Efficient Regional Aircraft (UERA) initiative, ATR will guide the development of hybrid-electric propulsion, advanced propeller systems, and electrified aircraft systems on a regional aircraft platform.
The programme will utilise an ATR 72-600 test bed to demonstrate these technologies in flight.
“We are honoured to lead this transformative effort with the support of Clean Aviation,” said Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, CEO at ATR.
“This is more than a technological demonstration, it’s a bold commitment to the future of regional aviation.
“By flying the world’s first hybrid-electric regional aircraft by 2030, we aim to further demonstrate that sustainability and connectivity can go hand in hand.”
The flagship project, HERACLES (Hybrid-Electric Regional Aircraft Concept for Low EmissionS), will combine hybrid-electric propulsion, high-performance batteries, and a thermal engine compatible with 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel.
ATR 72-600 testbed
Its technologies will be validated through DEMETRA (Demonstrator of an Electrified Modern Efficient Transport Regional Aircraft) using the ATR 72-600 as a flying laboratory.
These efforts align with Clean Aviation’s target of achieving up to 30% greater fuel efficiency for next-generation regional aircraft and support the EU’s climate objectives, including the Fit for 55 package and the European Green Deal.
ATR is the world’s leading regional aircraft manufacturer, with its ATR 42 and ATR 72 turboprops widely used by over 200 airlines in more than 100 countries.
Hybrid electric for regional aviation
Hybrid-electric propulsion is set to change the economics and environmental impact of regional air travel.
By combining electric motors with traditional engines, aircraft can operate more efficiently, reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions while maintaining the range required for short- and medium-haul flights.
For example, a hybrid-electric ATR could make a sustainable connection between cities such as Inverness and London, or Belfast and Edinburgh, with lower operating costs and a smaller carbon footprint.
ATR has been working on its ‘EVO’ concept (pictured, top), which is built around “mild hybridisation”, with entry into service planned for the mid-2030s.
EVO is being designed to combine an ultra-efficient thermal engine with a battery-powered electrical motor to optimise the engine core size through the use of electrical power. ATR says this will maximise the overall efficiency of the propulsive system.
