Electric planes are still in the experimental phase, but recent progress suggests they could become a reality in the near future. The main challenge of electric planes is the limited energy density of batteries compared to jet fuel, but new battery technologies and advancements in lightweight materials are being developed to extend the range and improve efficiency. Companies such as Airbus, Boeing, and Rolls-Royce are also investing in electric plane technology. The potential environmental and economic benefits, as well as regulatory pressures to reduce carbon emissions, are driving interest and investment in this technology, and while electric planes may not completely replace traditional aircraft, they could become a more common sight in the skies in the near future.
CATL’s focus is Achieving Carbon Neutrality for its Batteries
Chinese battery manufacturer, Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL), has launched a new battery that it claims can power electric passenger aircraft. The battery is a semi-solid state battery with condensed electrolyte and has a density of up to 500 Wh/k, allowing it to store 500 Watt hours of energy for every kilogram of its weight. CATL said that the battery can be mass-produced in a short amount of time and is already working with partners to develop flying electric vehicles. Additionally, CATL says it’s working to improve the carbon footprint of its batteries and plans to achieve carbon neutrality for its manufacturing plants by 2025 and across the battery value chain by 2035. It plans to focus on mining, bulk raw materials, battery materials, cell manufacturing and battery systems to achieve the goal.
While electric planes have been in development for some time, there are still significant challenges to overcome before they become a viable alternative to traditional jet-fuel-powered aircraft. Despite this, CATL is confident that the technology behind its battery marks a significant breakthrough, and it plans to achieve carbon neutrality for its manufacturing plants by 2025 and across the battery value chain by 2035.
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(Via)
