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CATL Successfully Testing Condensed Batteries in Electric AircraftCATL Successfully Testing Condensed Batteries in Electric Aircraft

CATL announces electric aircraft range breakthrough and advances in sodium-ion battery technology, revolutionizing sustainable air travel.

Maria Guerra, Senior Editor-Battery Technology

July 5, 2024

2 Min Read
Batteries for electric aircraft.
Dr. Robin Zeng, chairman and CEO of CATL, at the 15th World Economic Forum Annual Meeting of the New Champions, or Summer Davos, in northeast China's Dalian city. Courtesy of CATL.

At the 15th Annual Meeting of the New Champions of the World Economic Forum, CATL’s chairman, Robin Zeng, made a groundbreaking announcement that could reshape the future of aviation. CATL tweeted on the X platform:

View post on X

CATL's significant progress in their civil, electric manned aircraft cooperation project marks the first public disclosure of the range capabilities of CATL’s electric aircraft, highlighting a substantial advancement in aviation technology. According to the company, the 8-ton model is expected to be operational between 2027 and 2028, featuring a range that could revolutionize regional air travel. The key to this advancement lies in CATL’s cutting-edge condensed-state battery technology, boasting an energy density of 500Wh/kg. This energy density is double that of current electric vehicle (EV) power batteries, which typically offer around 250Wh/kg and meet the strict energy requirements for regional aircraft.

This development signifies a significant leap in the aviation industry, potentially leading to more sustainable and efficient air travel options. The high energy density of the batteries means that electric aircraft could become a viable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-powered planes, significantly reducing carbon emissions and operating costs.

Related:Electric Planes for DHL Cargo Shipping: A Closer Look

New generation of sodium-ion batteries

In addition to developing electric aircraft, CATL is also focusing on enhancing its battery technology across various applications. During his participation at the Annual Meeting of the New Champions, Zeng also disclosed that the company is advancing its sodium-ion battery technology, which is expected to offer better cost, lifespan, and low-temperature operation performance, with the anticipated growth and potential of sodium-ion batteries. According to Zeng, these batteries could be launched as early as next year, with the technology already at a developmental stage rated at level 7 out of 10. He stated, “This new generation of sodium-ion batteries will help not only in terms of cost but also on the low-temperature performance.”

With the introduction of condensed state and sodium-ion batteries, the potential applications range from more efficient EVs to advanced energy storage solutions. CATL’s progress in electric aircraft development underscores its role in driving forward sustainable technologies.  As the aviation industry looks towards a greener future, CATL’s electric aircraft could be a game-changer, offering a glimpse into a future where air travel is both efficient and environmentally friendly.

Related:Advancing Electric Aviation: NASA and Archer's Crucial Collaboration

The future of electric aviation holds immense promise, with potential benefits including reduced carbon emissions, lower operating costs, and increased efficiency. As technology advances, the vision of electric-powered flights becoming a mainstream mode of transportation is increasingly within reach. Innovative efforts like the ones by CATL pave the way for a new era in aviation, where sustainable and efficient air travel becomes a reality, ushering in a cleaner and greener future for the aviation industry.

About the Author

Maria Guerra

Senior Editor-Battery Technology, Informa Markets Engineering

Battery Technology Senior Editor Maria L. Guerra is an electrical engineer with a background in Oil & Gas consulting and experience as a Power/Analog Editor for Electronic Design.  Maria graduated from NYU Tandon School of Engineering with a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (MSEE). She combines her technical expertise with her knack for writing. 

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