Is a Battery-Powered Plane the Future of Air Travel?

Thread starter mgb_phys
Start date Oct 3, 2008
Tags

Electric

AI Thread Summary

Battery-powered planes are emerging as a potential future for air travel, boasting features like silent operation, low vibration, and zero emissions. Current models can achieve speeds of 70 mph with a two-hour endurance, and recharging costs are relatively low. However, discussions highlight significant challenges, including the high cost of battery packs and the limitations of battery energy density compared to traditional fuels. While electric planes may not yet match the performance of gasoline-powered aircraft, advancements in battery technology, such as EEStor's claims of higher energy density, could change the landscape. Overall, while battery-powered planes are innovative, their practicality and viability for widespread use remain under scrutiny.

Jul 7, 2009

mheslep

Gold Member

Wonder if they considered concentrated solar: essentially light pipes directed to higher efficiency cells. 40% multijunction is available, though too heavy to distribute, so use more reflectors, fewer PV cells.