China’s EHang Develops Solid State Battery for Pilotless Flight
In November 2024, Chinese company EHang achieved a new milestone in the EV industry by completing the world’s very first pilotless passenger-carrying eVTOL test flight powered by a solid state battery.
The 48-minute flight is yet another achievement in electric aviation and EV technology with the new potential the China solid state battery brings in transformative industries.
The Future of Solid-State Batteries
The EV solid state battery technology is considered as the next evolution in battery technology for EVs. Very different to traditional lithium-ion batteries, a solid-state battery offers higher energy density, faster charging times, improved resistance to high temperatures, and less risk of fire.
The future of solid-state batteries depends on these advantages, which could make EVs safer and more efficient. Consumers seeking solid-state battery will expect longer driving ranges and shorter charging times, which now are some of EVs’ biggest concerns.
EHang’s Contribution Towards Air Taxis
EHang ‘s test flight brings air taxis closer to reality, but at a time when Toyota and Boeing are also working on eVTOLs, EHang is the first to use current solid state battery technology in its aircraft.
It is one step closer to fulfilling that dream of electric, on demand air travel that could take traffic congestion off city streets forever.
Zhao Wang, COO of EHang, added, ”This is a crucial step in developing the solid-state battery technology of eVTOLs for improving flight safety and the endurance and efficiency of aircraft.”
The work at EHang can lead to the general adoption of electric air taxis for the much-needed cleaning of city air wordlwide.
Solid State Battery Manufacturers in China
EHang and Shenzhen Inx Energy Technology Company are leaders in solid state battery technology because they worked together closely since September 2023, to bring the solid-state battery used in the EH216-S eVTOL.
Beyond eVTOLs, EHang works on battery development for several other applications, including ultra-fast charging solutions for short-haul flights. This could further improve the efficiency of electric aircraft and make them practical for regular use.
Future Research on Solid State Batteries and Electric Transportation
EV solid state battery technology developed by EHang holds the ability to change both the Electric vehicle and aviation industries. With the advantages this technology has, the transition to sustainable electric transportation is no longer impossible.
The successful flight in EHang will represent just the beginning of success for the company and lay the foundation for future leading sets in the sector of electric vehicles and air taxis within the next few years.
In this connection, the company plans to initiate mass production of such batteries no later than the end of 2025.
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