Experts from Derby-based manufacturer Rolls-Royce are to be part of an “exciting” collaborative project to develop an electric-hybrid plane.

The project, being run in conjunction with Airbus and Siemens, could see the aircraft on a test flight as soon as 2020.

Rolls-Royce has said its East Midlands-based experts will help in developing the electronics and will also support the modification and integration of the motor into the aircraft.

Paul Stein, the company’s chief technology officer, said: “This is an exciting time for us.

“This technological advancement will result in Rolls-Royce creating the world’s most powerful flying generator.”

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