MagniX signals new era for electric helicopters with unveiling of HeliStorm
March 10, 2025
A leader in electric aviation, magniX has introduced a new line of lightweight high-speed electric engines designed for rotorcraft. The HeliStorm engine series is tailored for helicopters ranging from light single-engine models to larger hybrid-electric twin-engine rotorcraft, as well as airborne power generation applications.
The HeliStorm engines, when combined with magniX’s Samson batteries, offer a fully electric propulsion solution for helicopters. The first model in the series provides peak power output of 330kW while weighing just 75kg.
Key features
Boasting an operating speed of 6,000 – 7,000 RPM, HeliStorm engines are significantly lighter than turbine engines for similar aircraft. They also offer scalable power output ranges while the airborne power generation extends the range of hybrid-electric platforms.
The future of electric helicopters
Building on its extensive experience with flight testing, including two successful integrations with Robinson R44 helicopters, magniX continues to push the boundaries of electric aviation. The first electric Robinson R44 helicopter completed its maiden flight in June 2022 at Los Alamitos Airfield in California. Subsequent tests led to the world’s first point-to-point flight of an electric helicopter, demonstrating the viability of electric rotorcraft technology.
“The helicopter market represents a tremendous opportunity for MagniX,” commented Reed Macdonald, CEO of magniX. He added that the company’s “HeliStorm engines expand on magniX’s existing world-leading capabilities and deliver a step change in performance, reliability and value for customers.”
magniX’s chief technology officer, Riona Armesmith emphasised the significance of the new product line, which she said has been designed for “the specific demands of vertical lift applications and will give magniX the ability to electrify a wider range of platforms.” She also noted it will enable the electric propulsion technology manufacturer and developer to “build on its unparalleled performance of powering different aircraft with its industry leading electric powertrains.”
Robinson Helicopters CEO, David Smith, expressed his support for the new electric engine range. “magniX has a proven track record when it comes to powering our R44 with their electric motors,” he said. “We look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts to deliver market leading sustainable helicopters.”
R88 unveiling
Monday also saw another big announcement for Robinson Helicopters, as it unveiled its 10-seater R88, which it described as the “future workhorse for modern utility missions around the world,” at this year’s Verticon in Dallas. The helicopter will be powered by Safran Helicopter Engines’ 950 shp power class Arriel 2W, the newest variant of the Arriel family.
