Boeing tests ‘electric’ jet on Air Canada Boeing 767

[Rebel]

Boeing tests ‘electric’ jet on Air Canada Boeing 767. Earlier this week, Boeing tested an electric motor that could allow commercial jets to taxi around airports without using their engines or ground-based towing vehicles. In June, Boeing’s advanced research and development unit Phantom Works and Chorus Motors, in cooperation with Air Canada, used the nose-wheel motor to move around an Air Canada Boeing 767 jet in tests simulating various runway conditions. Air Canada pilots performed ground maneuvers on slopes and terrains typical of those at airports around the world, including driving in reverse from a gate and taxiing forward to a runway. Tests were also performed at ramp temperatures exceeding 120 degrees Fahrenheit and at loads of up to 94 per cent of the maximum takeoff weight for the airplane. While it’s unclear how soon the motor would be ready or how much it would cost, Boeing said it could save airlines money by eliminating the use of airport tow tugs and boost efficiency by running their jets less, as well as reduce emissions

[EI-EIO]

I presume this was an MHV-based 76?

[Bede]

Funny you write that. It's about time someone came up with that. I had that idea when I was about 7 and I was thinking about it a couple days ago.

[Guido]

Uh oh, Haza might be out of a job soon!

[Intentional Left Bank]

I remember as a kid going on a tour of the RMC in Kingston, and seeing some guy working on a project where an electric motor would spool the tyres up to the expected touchdown speed, thus saving the wear that occurs. It was to be contained in the existing hub assembly.

[ScudRunner]

Who needs a stinking Electric motor for Push back from the Gate? 2 words Thrust Reversing, Spoil them bad boys up and knock the ramp rats on there ass.