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    EHang’s solid-state battery doubles pilotless eVTOL flight time

    EHang, a key player in the electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft industry, has taken a significant step toward enhancing eVTOL endurance and operational potential. Recently, the company tested a solid-state battery on its flagship pilotless passenger-carrying EH216-S eVTOL, achieving nearly double the aircraft’s previous maximum endurance time. EHang’s success in this test not only underscores the promising future of solid-state battery technology but also opens new avenues for eVTOL applications in areas such as urban air mobility (UAM), firefighting, and aerial logistics.

    After securing the world’s first type certification a year ago and completing deliveries for low-altitude tourism projects, EHang has focused on battery innovations that could increase both flight time and safety. The company’s strategic partnership with Shenzhen Inx Energy Technology Company (Inx) in September 2023 marked the beginning of a collaborative effort aimed at creating a high-energy solid-state battery tailored for eVTOLs. This partnership received support from the Hefei International Advanced Technology Application Promotion Center, which established a dedicated battery research institute to aid EHang’s efforts in advancing the low-altitude economy in Hefei.

    The collaboration between EHang and Inx led to a solid-state battery prototype specifically designed for the EH216-S eVTOL. This battery utilizes metallic lithium as its anode and oxide ceramics as its electrolyte, resulting in a high energy density of 480 Wh/kg. Such density is nearly double that of conventional lithium-ion batteries. The solid-state battery also boasts a broad operational temperature range from -40 to 150°C (-40 to 302°F), allowing it to function under extreme environmental conditions.

    Compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries, EHang’s new solid-state battery offers several advantages. Not only does it enhance thermal stability, reducing the risk of fire, but it also improves storage stability and reduces maintenance needs. The cumulative benefits of this technology translate into longer and safer flights, which could enhance the viability of eVTOLs for a variety of applications.

    EHang EH216-S China Import Expo
    EHang showcases its EH216-S eVTOL at the China Import Expo in Shanghai earlier this month.

    On Wednesday, EHang successfully tested the solid-state battery on the EH216-S, achieving a continuous flight time of 48 minutes and 10 seconds—nearly double the previous 25-minute maximum endurance estimate for the aircraft. This extended flight time represents a significant advancement, allowing for expanded flight capabilities for current UAM and tourism applications. EHang showcased footage of the test during the opening ceremony of the new Urban Air Mobility (UAM) Hub at Luogang Central Park in Hefei, signaling the potential of the EH216-S for broader uses.

    “This milestone marks a significant achievement in the development of solid-state battery technology for eVTOLs, further enhancing flight safety while also substantially improving the aircraft’s endurance and operational efficiency,” commented Zhao Wang, COO of EHang. He further explained that beyond solid-state technology, EHang is also working with partners to develop other specialized battery solutions, including ultra-fast charging and discharging systems suitable for high-frequency short-haul flights. Wang highlighted the company’s plans to offer customized battery solutions for various client needs.

    EHang Team Solid State Battery eVTOL Flight Test
    EHang and its team celebrate the successful test of their solid-state battery, achieving a flight duration of 48 minutes and 10 seconds.

    Inx Chairman Lin Chen also emphasized the ongoing partnership and stated that the two companies aim to improve the solid-state battery’s capabilities, aspiring to achieve a 60-minute flight time by 2025. With continued development, EHang plans to scale up production of solid-state batteries by the end of 2025, a move that could support the widespread adoption of advanced eVTOL solutions.

    By increasing the endurance and operational scope of the EH216-S, EHang’s battery advancements hold promise for future eVTOL applications that extend beyond tourism, such as firefighting in high-rise areas and efficient aerial logistics.

    EHang Solid State Battery eVTOL Flight Test Vertiport
    EHang revealed the results of its solid-state battery test during the launch of its second vertiport, the UAM Hub, at Luogang Central Park.

    Source: EHang

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