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> you are asserting fundamental physics prevents it from happening? The energy density of batteries vs fuels is the current limitation. We don't know if this p
by xcv123 3y ago
> you are asserting fundamental physics prevents it from happening?
The energy density of batteries vs fuels is the current limitation. We don't know if this problem can ever be solved. A business cannot gamble on some magical hopes and dreams.
> within 30 years the massive airliners will be replaced with 20MW or so battery electrics
And how much will those 20MW batteries weigh?
With the current lithium battery technology, you would need a 7,167 metric ton battery to store the same amount of energy as 150 tons of jet fuel, which is typical for a long haul passenger jet.
- robertlagrant 3y ago> The energy density of batteries vs fuels is the current limitation It's not just that. Fuels mean the aeroplane gets lighter with distance, especially on ascent. Batteries need so much more energy just to carry their own weight the whole way.
- Ekaros 3y agoAlso often forgotten thing is that aircrafts have also designed max landing weight. This isn't hard limit, but limit for normal operations. This is why they go in holding pattern to burn fuel for example if cabin pressure is lost. So not immediate emergency, but something where you want to land sooner than planned.
- xcv123 3y agoTo put it in perspective, the A380 max landing weight is 391 tonnes, versus the 7000 tonnes of lithium batteries required to power a long haul flight.