Natron Energy's high-performance sodium-ion batteries outperform lithium-ion counterparts in power density, recharging speed, and safety
United becomes the first major airline to invest in a battery manufacturer, based on publicly announced investments
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United has more than 12,000 pieces of motorized ground equipment across its operations, of which about one third are currently electric. Natron's batteries could potentially be deployed in support of a number of uses, including:
- Charging electric ground equipment
- Charging anticipated future electric aircraft such as electric air taxis
- Allowing airport operations to manage electricity demand
- Greatly improving resiliency related to inclement weather
"Natron's sodium-ion batteries will help the aviation industry achieve its decarbonization and EV goals," said
The sodium-ion batteries contain several features that distinguish them from existing battery technology. In addition to better output and cycle life than their lithium counterparts, testing performed by an independent testing service has shown these batteries to be nonflammable, a critical safeguard for the high usage and power that would be required for certain operations. The minerals used in sodium-ion batteries are abundant worldwide and are easily sourced, unlike lithium which is in short supply with demand expected to triple by 2025.
Natron plans to use the funds to accelerate production at its manufacturing facility in
Launched in 2021, UAV is a first-of-its-kind sustainability-focused ventures fund that targets startups, upcoming technologies, and concepts that will complement United's goal of net zero emissions by 2050 - without relying on traditional carbon offsets such as planting trees. UAV's portfolio now includes SAF producers and other technologies including carbon utilization, hydrogen-electric engines, electric regional aircraft, and urban air mobility.
About United
United's shared purpose is "Connecting People. Uniting the World." From our
About Natron Energy
Natron Energy manufactures sodium-ion battery products based on a unique Prussian blue electrode chemistry for a wide variety of industrial power applications ranging from critical backup power systems to EV fast charging and behind-the-meter applications. Natron's mission is to transform industrial and grid energy storage markets by providing customers with lower-cost, longer-lasting, more efficient, safer batteries. Natron's products are UL 1973 listed, offer higher power density, faster recharge, and significantly longer cycle life than incumbent technologies. Natron builds its batteries using commodity materials on existing cell manufacturing lines in
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Tweet me: .@United announces a strategic investment in Natron Energy, whose sodium-ion batteries have the potential to help United electrify its airport ground equipment. Learn more about their sustainability investments here: https://bit.ly/3EMCxeY
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