The aviation industry is still a long way from having a viable electrified fleet, but prototypes are already being developed, and one of the most important milestones was the approval of the first recharging point by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
The transition to electric transportation is not only taking place in terms of vehicles, as trains, ships and airplanes, are also included in this process. In fact, air mobility is one of the most carbon-intensive sectors, which is why devoting time and money to developing this industry is extremely important.
Eaton has patented this technology to refuel airplanes by charging electricity, achieving an efficiency point that surpassed 96%, fully suitable for electrified aircrafts, either conventional or eVTOL. Similarly, it can also be used in cars, although its main function will be air mobility.
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Skycharge has also been endorsed to provide energy to airplanes with V2G, Vehicle-to-grid, technology. This will be possible thanks to the technological system that enables power to be transmitted to the aircraft (or vice versa) depending on the requirements during the moment of connection.
On the other hand, the charging base will not be fixed, i.e., if for any reason the aerial vehicle cannot be brought to the refueling point, a mobile unit using GB/T socket will provide the facility to fulfill its function without moving the aircraft. On the contrary, the equipment will arrive wherever it is needed.
What is Skycharge?
This project is led by Green Motion and Pipistrel. These two companies have decided to work together for sustainable mobility, achieving optimal results after obtaining EASA approval. It should be noted that Green Motion is part of Eaton, a company dedicated to energy management, which is the architect of the current charging system.
About Green Motion
Green Motion manufactures charging stations, designs management software for charging networks, operates charging stations and operates as a provider of electric mobility services. Green Motion creates innovative technologies, including charging stations for electric aircraft and on-board chargers for the automotive industry.
About Pipistrel
Pipistrel is a world-leading designer and manufacturer of small aircraft specializing in high-performance, energy-efficient and affordable aircraft. With over 30 years of experience, Pipistrel has produced over 2200 aircraft to date, earning a significant international reputation for delivering unique and innovative products to passionate customers on every continent.
Written by | Ronald Ortega
