At every show we attend, we see more aircraft applications for lithium ion batteries, although some safety concerns related to thermal protection remain a worry. At the U.S. Sport Aviation Expo in Sebring this week, Reg Nicosan of Earth-X, a major lithium ion manufacturer, gave AVweb an update on the state of the lithium ion market.
Nicosan said that although lithium ion batteries still cost more than twice as much as equivalent capacity lead acid batteries, they’re also much lighter and more durable, lasting for years through thousands of charging cycles. In this podcast recorded at Sebring this week, Nicosan said within five year or so, lithium ion batteries for certified airplanes are likely to be a reality. In addition to lighter weight and better durability, these batteries will also offer much higher cranking capacity.
Duration: 6:50
File Size: 5.8 MB download here
