The two-day BloombergNEF (BNEF) Shanghai Summit concluded on December 4, bringing together global leaders from the renewable energy sector, investment experts, policymakers, and industry innovators. Among the esteemed participants was Dr. Li Shuli, Director of the Great Power Research Institute, who was invited to discuss the theme “Expanding Urban Air Mobility Horizons.”

According to industry projections, the global low-altitude economy is poised to reach a market size of ¥2.32 trillion in 2024, with a compound annual growth rate of 11.51% over the next five years. China, leveraging its world-class battery industry and robust supply chain, is fostering innovations in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles and other airborne technologies across sectors like industrial, agricultural, and commercial applications. Regions such as the Greater Bay Area, Yangtze River Delta, and Northeast China are emerging as trailblazers, aspiring to build futuristic “Sky Cities.”

At the summit, Dr. Li delved into the applications and future potential of advanced battery technologies in powering eVTOLs and lightweight aircraft. Discussions spanned key topics such as innovation opportunities, certification challenges, and the transformative impact of new air transportation technologies.

Dr. Li emphasized that the rapid growth of the low-altitude economy is fueled not only by advancements in flight technologies but also by breakthroughs in complementary sectors, including telecommunications, aviation, and batteries. Battery-powered aircraft, for example, offer operational cost reductions exceeding 80% compared to traditional fuel-powered aircraft, while minimizing engine wear and delivering significant environmental benefits such as noise reduction and zero emissions.

As a company with 23 years of experience in battery innovation, Great Power has been an early leader in exploring the potential of batteries for low-altitude applications. The company’s advanced research has led to the development of cutting-edge solutions that address the extreme demands of high-altitude and low-temperature environments. These challenges necessitate higher energy density, superior safety, and enhanced power performance compared to conventional energy storage solutions.

During the summit, Dr. Li highlighted Great Power’s achievements, including the successful development of ultra-high-energy-density drone batteries. These products are supported by two newly operational low-dew-point automated production lines. Additionally, the company’s batteries with energy densities ranging from 340 to 370 Wh/kg have entered mass production and are being delivered to major clients. Designed for maximum safety, these batteries also support high-power outputs of 5–10P, meeting the demands of diverse flight paths.

Looking to the future, Dr. Li identified solid-state batteries as a promising technology for aircraft applications. Their inherent safety, combined with higher energy densities, positions them as a key driver for the next generation of low-altitude economy solutions. However, further advancements in power density and cost reductions will be essential for their widespread adoption.

As urban air mobility reshapes transportation, Great Power is committed to leveraging its expertise to provide safe, reliable, and innovative power solutions. The company aims to collaborate with industry partners to accelerate the growth of the low-altitude economy, bringing sustainable and efficient solutions to life.

By driving innovation and fostering collaboration, Great Power is set to play a pivotal role in making the dream of urban air mobility a reality—transforming cities and enriching lives.