Two Companies Collaborate to Develop Fast-Charging Batteries for Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing Aircraft (eVTOL), Charging from 30% to 80% in Just Minutes.
(Video: EHang).
EHang, a Chinese aerial vehicle company, has partnered with Guangzhou Greater Bay Technology (GBT), a fast-charging technology firm, to develop the world’s first Ultra Fast Charging (UFC) and Extreme Fast Charging (XFC) solutions for eVTOLs, as reported by Interesting Engineering on April 29. eVTOL, or electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles, are seen as a revolutionary advancement in personal mobility.
“This collaboration will significantly reduce charging times and lay a solid foundation for efficient, large-scale, and cost-effective commercial operations in the low-altitude economy,” EHang stated.
EHang and GBT will work together to develop battery solutions and energy storage systems for eVTOLs, ensuring they meet the 4H standards set by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). These standards emphasize high energy density, long cycle life, rapid charge-discharge rates, and high safety levels. Additionally, to create an ecosystem for future commercial operations, the two companies will gradually establish fast-charging stations and other necessary infrastructure.
12 EH216-S flying taxis taking off in Hefei, China.
One of the key components of eVTOLs is the battery system, whose performance influences range, stability, safety, and operational efficiency. The new UFC/XFC batteries will focus on three important parameters. Firstly, fast charging, allowing the battery to charge from 30% to 80% in just 5 to 10 minutes. Secondly, the battery system will have an energy density exceeding 200 Wh/kg. Finally, the lifespan will extend beyond 2,000 cycles.
This new collaboration will help accelerate the development of EHang’s EH216-S flying taxi, which received mass production approval (PC) from the CAAC on March 7. This is the first PC license in the global eVTOL industry, marking a significant leap toward the mass production of such vehicles and subsequent commercial operations.
The current range of the EHang 216-S is limited to 30 km, with a charging time of 2 hours. The new high-energy density battery with ultra-fast charging capabilities will significantly enhance operational prospects for flying vehicles like the EH216-S.
