And what about self-driving modern electric aviation? This is where the concept of autonomy meets the skies, bringing together cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), sensors, and advanced avionics systems. Self-driving electric aircraft and eVTOLs are designed to operate without a human pilot, relying on sophisticated algorithms and real-time data to make split-second decisions about navigation, obstacle avoidance, and landing. The idea is not just to improve efficiency but also to reduce human error, which remains a leading cause of accidents in traditional aviation.
The safety and performance of lithium-ion batteries could be significantly improved thanks to a new process that allows the production of large graphene current collectors. The breakthrough has been achieved by a team of Welsh-Chinese researchers.
Researchers at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics (DICP) in China have made significant progress in the development of the Organic Flow Battery (OAAB): the new device retains 99.95% of its capacity after 850 charging cycles. This breakthrough was achieved with naphthalene-based organic redox-active molecules (ORAMs), marking a major milestone in battery technology.
US-based Kronos Advanced Technologies and Yasheng Group have entered into a strategic partnership to develop a nuclear battery with an expected lifespan of up to 50 years. This pioneering technology aims to revolutionize energy storage by providing a reliable, long-lasting power source for critical sectors such as medical devices, aerospace, military applications, and even electric flight.
Elysian, a newcomer in the aerospace sector, is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with battery-powered aircraft, aiming to transform regional air transport within the next decade.
In a strategic move to strengthen its presence in the emerging air taxi market, Stellantis has committed up to $370 million to support the production of air taxis by Archer Aviation. This substantial investment will specifically target the manufacturing of Archer’s Midnight aircraft, with production targets set at approximately 650 units annually.