Honeywell and Safran have begun the first rolling tests for their electric green taxiing system, which is expected to improve operational efficiency.

The system is designed to provide environmental benefits by cutting carbon and other emissions generated during runway taxi operations.

The system allows aircraft to taxi without requiring the use of aircraft engines, instead using the auxiliary power unit generator to power motors in the main wheels.

During taxi operations, each of the powered wheels is equipped with an electromechanical actuator, while power electronics and system controllers provide pilots with control over the aircraft’s speed, direction and braking.

The system is expected to burn less fuel, improve on time performance and result in greener operation.

Honeywell and Safran are expected to offer the electric green taxiing system either on new aircraft or as a retrofit solution to in-service aircraft by 2016.