EHang Collaborates with Greater Bay to Create Ultra-Fast Charging Batteries for eVTOL Use

April 29, 2024:  EHang Holdings, a prominent player in Urban Air Mobility (UAM) technology, has formed a strategic alliance with Guangzhou Greater Bay Technology, specialists in ultra-fast charging, as revealed at the 16th Chongqing International Battery Technology Exchange Conference/Exhibition. This collaboration aims to pioneer the development of Ultra-Fast Charging (UFC) and eXtreme Fast Charging (XFC) battery solutions specifically tailored for EHang's electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Additionally, this partnership will drive the advancement and industrialization of key power system components and modules for eVTOLs within the UAM sector, thereby establishing a foundational ecosystem for the commercial viability of the low-altitude economy.

The partnership will leverage EHang's existing eVTOL models, such as EH216-S and VT30, to co-develop eVTOL-compatible power cells, batteries, packs, charging piles, and energy storage systems that conform to the airworthiness standards set by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). These systems are also designed to meet the 4H standards, which include high energy density, high cycle life, high instantaneous charge-discharge rate, and high safety. This will facilitate the integration of ultra-fast charging technology into EHang’s fleet. Over time, EHang and GBT will also focus on establishing fast-charging infrastructure to support the ecosystem necessary for future commercial operations.

The proposed UFC/XFC batteries are integral to the aircraft's core system, directly influencing its range, stability, safety, and operational efficiency. The collaboration expects these batteries to offer significant benefits, such as:
- A rapid charging capability that allows batteries to charge from 30% to 80% within just five to ten minutes,
- A high energy density exceeding 200 Wh/kg,
- A robust cycle life with more than 2,000 charge cycles.

These advancements are anticipated to significantly enhance the safety, endurance, and operational efficiency of EHang’s eVTOL aircraft, catering effectively to the demands of convenience, efficiency, and economy critical for extensive, high-frequency eVTOL operations in urban low-altitude mobility settings.