Chinese battery manufacturer Contemporary Amperex Technology Co Ltd (CATL) has provided an exciting update on its ongoing partnership project focused on developing electric manned aircraft.

This ambitious project aims to significantly advance the electric aviation industry, promising to deliver remarkable performance and range for civil aircraft.

CATL has been working on a groundbreaking innovation in the field of electric aviation. The company’s efforts have already yielded successful results, as demonstrated by the recent test flight of a 4-ton electric plane powered by CATL’s ultra-high energy density battery. The results of this test mark a significant milestone in the development of electric aviation technology.

Unveil an 8-ton civil electric aircraft by 2028

Looking ahead, CATL has set its sights on an even more impressive goal. By 2028, the company expects to unveil an 8-ton civil electric aircraft capable of achieving a flight range of approximately 1,200 to 1,800 miles (2,000 to 3,000 kilometers).

This development is anticipated to be a major leap forward for the sector, potentially transforming the future of civil aviation.

Zeng Yuqun, the founder of CATL, revealed that the company has already conducted test flights with a 4-ton civilian aircraft utilizing their new battery technology. The samples and panel line product have already been integrated into planes, demonstrating the feasibility and readiness of this innovation.

Developing a new generation of sodium-ion batteries

In addition to its advancements in electric aircraft, CATL is also developing a new generation of sodium-ion batteries. Zeng announced that these innovative batteries are expected to be released next year, highlighting the company’s commitment to pioneering new technologies in the energy sector.

India stands on the cusp of pioneering its aircraft development, a potential reality in the near future. With the Indian aviation market poised to become one of the world’s top five largest markets, there’s a burgeoning demand for carriers like Indigo, Air India, and Akasa. Together, they’ve placed orders for over 1400 aircraft from Boeing and Airbus, marking one of the highest orders in the aviation industry.

‘Made in India’ passenger aircraft.

To transform the dream of a ‘Made in India’ passenger aircraft into reality and propel the local aerospace ecosystem, India requires a comprehensive National Aerospace Policy. Notably, Airbus and Boeing have yet to establish final aircraft assembly lines (FALs) within India, spurred by the significant orders received.

India has exerted considerable pressure to establish assembly lines domestically, mirroring the success of similar initiatives abroad. With its aviation market growing at an unprecedented rate, India boasts the largest order book for new aircraft, estimated at a staggering $70 billion over the next decade. Existing airports bustle with travelers while new ones are either under construction or in the planning phase.

The timeline for India to realize the Prime Minister’s vision of a Made in India commercial aircraft hinges on various factors. Leveraging its prowess in exporting IT services and aerospace technologies, India is poised for the next stage of development.

The success rate of China’s C919 and ARJ21.

In the realm of commercial aerospace manufacturing, Europe and the US have long held the reins, but China has emerged as a formidable contender in recent years. China’s journey began in 2002 with the ARJ21, a regional jet, and later the C919, a larger narrow-body aircraft. While the ARJ21 encountered delays and is seen as a modest achievement, the C919 boasts over one thousand orders, marking a significant success.

Both programs heavily rely on foreign technologies sourced from global original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), underscoring the importance of collaborations and creating an appealing environment for foreign companies to operate within China.

Indian HAL has 80 years of history.

India, too, boasts a rapidly growing aerospace sector that traces its roots back to pre-independence times, predating China’s endeavors by over 60 years. Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), initially established as Hindustan Aircraft Ltd in 1940, spearheaded this journey. Given its early establishment, India was poised to become a major player in aerospace manufacturing.

HAL shoulders much of the responsibility for developing aircraft for defense purposes, including the TEJAS, attack and multirole helicopters, trainer aircraft, and notably, the Dornier D228, a passenger version aircraft representing a significant breakthrough for the Indian Aerospace Industry. Demand for helicopters is also on the rise, further showcasing India’s potential in the aerospace domain.

India’s aviation market Demand.

One drawback in the defense sector is the inherent uncertainty surrounding government budgets and delays in allocating funds for helicopter purchases. On the civilian front, aircraft demand remains consistently high, especially when they meet passenger needs and receive regular approvals from authorities.

India’s aviation market is distinct, calling for unique aircraft programs. With a high density of flyers, there’s a prevalent preference for short-haul flights from rural areas to major cities. As the air travel network expands to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, the number of operational airports is expected to surge from the current 140 to 230-240.

The demand for smaller aircraft, particularly for serving Tier 1-3 cities, is paramount for airlines. While the Dornier aircraft has been utilized for some routes, its availability limitations and noise levels have raised concerns. Jet planes emerge as preferable options for Indian travelers due to their efficiency and comfort, aligning better with the needs of airlines.

Establishing a sustainable aircraft program requires long-term commitment and substantial risk capital, often necessitating government support akin to what’s observed in developed markets. For instance, COMAC, over its lifetime, received significant state-related support ranging from $49-72 billion, while Airbus, over the years, obtained $22 billion from the EU.

Encouraging private investment is crucial for fostering growth in the aerospace sector and nurturing indigenous aircraft development in India. Such initiatives could significantly bolster the country’s aviation industry and enhance its self-reliance in this critical domain.

Indian Regional Jet (IRJ).

Introducing the Indian Regional Jet (IRJ), a cutting-edge project led by India’s National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) and set to be manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This regional airliner aims to redefine air travel with its design, offering a capacity of 80–100 passengers. The base model, known as the RTA-70, will boast 80–90 seats while distinguishing itself with a cost that’s 20 percent lower than its global counterparts.

Development is well underway, with plans for a 90-seater variant expected to take flight by 2026. This next-generation aircraft promises impressive specs, including a range of 1,350 nm (2,500 km), and requiring a take-off and landing field length of 900m (2,950 ft). With dimensions of 28.6m in length and a wingspan of 29.4m, it reaches a service ceiling of 30,000 ft and cruises at 300kt, all while meeting Stage 4 noise criteria.

Saras Aircraft.

Meanwhile, NAL’s innovative spirit extends to the NAL Saras, another project in the works. Already, prototypes like the Mark1 and its successor, the second version dubbed ‘Mark 2,’ are pushing boundaries. The Saras Mark 2 showcases versatility, offering ranges of 600 km with 19 passengers, 1,200 km with 14 passengers, and an impressive 2,000 km with eight passengers. With a top cruise speed exceeding 600 km/h and an endurance of six hours, it’s a game-changer.

Weights
Max. take-off : 7600 kg (16755 lb)
Operating empty wt. : 5100 kg (11244 lb)
Max. fuel weight : 1832 kg (4039 lb)
Max. pay load : 1710 kg (3770 lb)

Power plant
SARAS is powered by two Pratt and Whitney Canada.
PT6A-67A turbo-prop engines (flat rated to 1200 shp)
driving 2.6 m diameter 5 bladed constant speed propellers
at 1700 rpm in a Tractor configuration.
Main dimensions
Span : 18 m (59.05 ft)
Length : 17.3 m (56.8 ft)
Height : 5.5 m (18 ft)

Performance (ISA)
Take-off distance : 820 m (2690 ft)
Landing distance : 665 m (2182 ft)
Max. rate of climb : 10 m/s (1980 ft/min)
Max. range* (19 pax) : 750 km (405 nm)
Max. range* (10 pax) : 2350 km (1270 nm)
Ferry range* : 2400 km (1295 nm)
Max. cruise speed : 485 km/hr (260 Kts)
Endurance : 6 hours . With 45 min reserve

Equipped with propeller engines initially, the Saras is poised for future upgrades to jet engines if project requirements align. NAL’s ambition shines through in its cost-effective approach, targeting ₹50 crore per unit for the Saras Mk2, undercutting the ₹55 crore Dornier 228 with its unpressurized cabin and altitude restrictions. Anticipating government support, NAL aims to secure orders for 50-60 units to ensure manufacturing viability, with an initial order of 15 aircraft from the Indian Air Force potentially expanding to 120–140 units in the coming years.