CATL, a leading global battery manufacturer, has announced a significant investment in Autoflight, a Chinese startup specializing in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology. The deal, valued at hundreds of millions of dollars, marks CATL’s first public investment in the eVTOL sector.
The investment was disclosed in a press release from Autoflight on August 3, which described the move as a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing eVTOL battery technology. “This investment reflects CATL’s recognition of Autoflight’s competitiveness and long-term growth potential in the eVTOL space,” the release stated.
Under the terms of the agreement, CATL and Autoflight will collaborate on research and development efforts to improve eVTOL aviation batteries. The focus will be on enhancing energy density, performance, safety, and stability to support extended flight ranges and increased payloads. “The partnership will help eVTOL batteries improve in terms of safety and stability,” Autoflight added.
Autoflight Successfully Tests eVTOL at Shanghai Pudong International Airport
Founded in 2017, Shanghai-based Autoflight is one of the pioneers in China’s eVTOL industry, aiming to revolutionize air logistics and mobility. The company completed a $100 million Series A funding round in September 2021, the largest single funding for a Chinese eVTOL company at that time. In October 2021, Autoflight conducted its V1500M’s maiden flight, which has a maximum takeoff weight of 1,500 kilograms and a passenger flight range of up to 250 kilometers. More recently, in May 2024, the company’s V2000CG eVTOL successfully completed a test flight at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, and on August 1, one of its eVTOLs flew across the Yangtze River.
CATL, the world’s largest electric vehicle battery manufacturer, is expanding its technology applications beyond EVs. The company introduced its Condensed Battery in April 2023, which is expected to be used in electric aircraft. CATL Chairman Robin Zeng indicated in June that the company is progressing on its electric manned aircraft initiative, targeting a range of 2,000 to 3,000 kilometers by 2027-2028.
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