Robinson Helicopter Company has entered into an agreement with electric propulsion developer magniX to deliver an electric demonstration helicopter based on the R66 platform, the company announced last week.
magniX will provide its fully-integrated electric powertrain for helicopters, including the high-speed HeliStorm engines and Samson batteries, for Robinson to install in an R66 airframe. The two companies plan to have the demonstrator in the air by the end of 2026.
"magniX’s proven experience in electric propulsion, and previous experience with the R44 makes them the right partner to collaborate on alternative powerplant solutions,” said Robinson president and CEO David Smith. “This agreement allows us to develop market-leading, zero-emission solutions that meet the needs of many critical mission types.”
In 2022, magniX powered the first flight of a retrofitted electric Robinson R44 helicopter, followed in March 2025 with a piloted flight by a hydrogen-electric R44.
“We have demonstrated the clear cost, noise and safety benefits of magniX’s fully-integrated electric powertrains,” said Riona Armesmith, CTO of magniX. “magniX technology is well suited to meeting the needs of the helicopter market and we’re proud to partner with Robinson as they seek to develop cost-effective electric helicopters with a clear path to certification.”
The Helistorm engine operates at 6000-7000 RPM and weighs 75 kg, but needs to be linked to a source of electric power such as magniX's Samson battery or other power cell.
Robinson's R66 is one of the world's most popular turbine helicopters, with 1500 units operating around the world and another 100 joining the fleet each year.