System Overview


Introduction
WheelTug® is a fully integrated ground propulsion system for aircraft. Built into the hubs of the nose wheels, it will give aircraft of all sizes full ground mobility (forward & reverse with steering) without turbines or external tugs. It will not require airframe modifications. It will be powered by the Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) which, while technically a turbine, is designed for this sort of application.

Capabilities
Taxi without Turbines WheelTug can move an airliner along the taxiway at speeds ranging from 1-20 mph, depending on available power.
Push Back without Tugs With WheelTug, aircraft would no longer need external tugs or turbines to move on the ground. This can simplify gate operations.
Cockpit Integration WheelTug is designed to be easy to use and will be fully integrated into aircraft cockpits.

Benefits
Save Fuel Over 485 million gallons are wasted yearly by commercial airliners using turbines, instead of WheelTug, to taxi.
Increase Efficiency As WheelTug is fully integrated with the aircraft, there is no more waiting for conventional tugs to push back from the gate.
Reduce Maintenance Turbines don't only suck fuel, they suck in sand and other debris.

For many applications, particularly military, turbine-based taxiing creates a huge maintenance expense.
Cut Emissions Turbines emit significant NOx and carbon monoxide while taxiing. WheelTug will cut those emissions significantly. WheelTug will also slash noise emissions.

Components
Twin electric nose wheel motors The core of the system, these twin Chorus® motors pack a lot of power in a small space.
Power Electronics Developed by Semikron, an industry leader in power electronics, this component is compact, powerful and highly reliable.
Software and Controls Developed by an expert team with experience in satellite design, our software and control systems are robust and intuitive.

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