GE Aviation Czech and ATB Antriebstehnik AG have agreed to jointly explore turboprop propulsion solutions for the general aviation and urban mobility market in the power range between 500 and 1000 SHP, leveraging GE's H Series turboprop aircraft engine technology and ATB electrical machines.

Different configurations will be investigated and a first proof of concept test is aimed to take place later this year.

"We're excited to contribute into the development of more sustainable transportation systems and greener flight" said Michele D`Ercole, President and managing executive of GE Aviation Czech, Business and General Aviation Turboprops.

GE Aviation Czech will also provide system integration supported by leading European research centers for electric propulsion and other key partners for battery systems.

"We are extremely proud to join our efforts with GE to investigate new turboprop solutions combined with our system electrical technology," said George Gao, ATB Chief Executive Officer.

"The solution aims to combine simplicity and power density for a unit tailored for the turboprop general aviation market," said Francesco Falco, ATB-WOLONG VP Global Sales & Marketing.

The project adds to the $400M+ investment GE Aviation is pursuing in Europe into the turboprop program including its new Turboprop headquarters in Prague, where the H Series is manufactured and the all-new GE Catalyst engine is being developed and tested.