Electric flying: The status quo and its challenges
In recent years, electric flight has developed from a theoretical possibility to a tangible reality. Small aircraft such as the Velis Electro from Pipistrel, which have been certified by both the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), are already demonstrating the feasibility of this concept. Aircraft manufacturer Diamond has also made progress with the electrification of its training aircraft. DA-40 made an important contribution.
Despite these advances, the limited energy density of batteries remains a key problem. Conventional lithium-ion batteries currently used in aviation offer an energy density of around 100 to 120 watt hours per kilogramme (Wh/kg). This comparatively low energy density means that batteries can only store a limited amount of energy in relation to their weight. This makes it difficult to develop electric aircraft that can cover greater distances or transport heavier payloads.
Magnix: A breakthrough in battery technology
The hope of a solution to this problem now comes from the American developer of electric drives Magnix. The company recently announced its intention to launch a new generation of high-performance batteries on the market. The so-called Samson 300-battery promises an energy density of 300 Wh/kg - a considerable increase compared to current standards.
This new battery was developed specifically for the requirements of aviation and is intended for use in aircraft of various sizes, from air taxis to vertical take-off and landing electric aeroplanes (eVTOLs). Particularly noteworthy is the manufacturer's stated service life of up to 1000 charging cycles, a technical challenge that previous battery technologies have struggled to overcome.
Magnix also has ambitious plans for the further development of its batteries. The company is already working on the next generation of batteries with an energy density of 400 Wh/kg. This could further increase the range and payload of electric aircraft and take electric flying to a new level.
A look into the future: certification and use
Magnix plans to launch the new Samson 300-battery to be certified by the FAA by the end of 2026. This would be a significant step towards the widespread use of this technology in aviation. An earlier innovation by the company already shows what is possible: In 2020, Magnix equipped a Cessna 208 Caravan and carried out a successful all-electric test flight during which the aircraft remained in the air for half an hour.
With the imminent launch of the Samson 300 and the further development of battery technology, larger aircraft and longer distances could soon be flown purely electrically. This would not only significantly reduce aviation's CO2 emissions, but also reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Conclusion: The path to sustainable aviation
Magnix's developments mark an important milestone in the history of electric flight. While the energy density of batteries remains one of the biggest challenges, the progress made shows that solutions are within reach. The coming years could be decisive in determining whether the aviation industry can be put on a sustainable course. If Magnix's promises are fulfilled, electric flying could soon no longer be just a niche, but a central component of aviation.
Source references:
AeroTelegraph
