Rahul Somvanshi
Chinese eVTOL manufacturer EHang (NASDAQ: EH) has completed the first autonomous flight test of a solid-state battery-powered passenger aircraft, marking a technical milestone in electric aviation. The EH216-S aircraft flew continuously for 48 minutes and 10 seconds, surpassing previous endurance estimates of 25 minutes.
Technical Specifications and Performance
The solid-state battery, developed in partnership with Shenzhen-based Inx Energy Technology, employs metallic lithium as the anode and oxide ceramics as the electrolyte. The battery achieves an energy density of 480 Wh/kg and operates in temperatures from -40°C to 150°C. This configuration has demonstrated a 60-90% increase in flight endurance compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries.
“We’re dedicated to further increase the flight time of EH216-S by 25% to 60 minutes in 2025, and unlock a wider range of urban air mobility applications,” stated Lin Chen, chairman of Inx Energy Technology. The company plans to further improve battery performance by 25% within that timeframe.
Safety and Operational Benefits
The solid-state battery technology offers several advantages over traditional liquid lithium batteries:
- Enhanced thermal stability
- Lower flammability risk
- Improved storage stability
- Reduced maintenance requirements
- Broader operating temperature range
EHang COO Zhao Wang explained, “This achievement is a significant step forward in the R&D of high-energy density battery, demonstrating our firm commitment to being at the forefront of clean energy technology innovation.”
Development Timeline and Production Plans
The battery development resulted from a strategic partnership formed in September 2023, when EHang invested in Inx Energy. The collaboration included support from the Advanced Technology Application and Promotion Center’s battery research institute in Hefei, Anhui province.
EHang aims to:
- Complete certification procedures by end of 2025
- Begin mass production of solid-state batteries for the EH216-S
- Expand applications in urban air mobility, logistics, and emergency services
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Market Position and Delivery Status
As reported in the source documents, EHang has delivered 26 EH216-S aircraft in Q1 2024, bringing total deliveries to 263 units. In separate development, the company secured $22 million in funding from Zhuhai Enpower Electric and a UAE-based strategic investor.
Industry Context
This development represents the first implementation of solid-state batteries in the eVTOL sector. Battery manufacturer CATL has announced plans for their first eVTOL battery flight test by the end of this year, according to statements made by CATL chairman Robin Zeng Yuqun at the 2024 World Power Battery Conference.
Practical Applications
The extended flight capability enables:
- High-rise firefighting operations
- Extended range aerial logistics
- Urban air mobility tourism
- Long-distance transportation
The notarized flight test was conducted at EHang’s new Urban Air Mobility Hub in Luogang Central Park, Hefei, demonstrating the technology’s readiness for practical implementation.
Financial Details
EHang trades on the NASDAQ under the symbol EH. The company maintains strategic investments in battery technology development while expanding its production capabilities. Recent funding includes the $22 million investment package from industrial partners.
Data Verification: All technical specifications, flight durations, and company statements have been verified against official press releases and documentation provided by EHang and Inx Energy Technology.
