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Plans For London-Paris Electric Flight in 'Next Decade' Unveiled (telegraph.co.uk)

Posted by msmash on from the this-is-the-future dept.

A start-up has unveiled ambitious plans to offer an electric-powered commercial flight between London and Paris in the next ten years. From a report: Wright Electric believes the proposed low-emission electric plane would offer a cheaper alternative to jet fuel for airlines and consumers. However, the start-up's bid to revolutionize short-haul flights relies on the continued advancement of battery technology. The company, who pitched to investors this week, would be forced to switch to a hybrid of aviation fuel and electricity if the advances in battery technology fail to materialise.

6 of 90 comments (clear)

  1. No chance. by HornWumpus · · Score: 5, Insightful

    They would have to have the airplane largely designed and in early initial prototype to have it certified for commercial service in 10 years. This is pure bullshit seeking dumb investor money.

    I approve: 'A fool and their money were lucky to get together in the first place.'

    --
    John McAfee 'It was like that time I hired that Bangkok prostitute; to do my taxes, while I fucked my accountant'
    1. Re:No chance. by squiggleslash · · Score: 4, Funny

      Hence the London to Paris route of the first phase of this project, as right now power cord technology is sufficiently advanced that they can build cables of that length that won't snap. The battery powered planes will come later.

      --
      You are not alone. This is not normal. None of this is normal.
    2. Re:No chance. by squiggleslash · · Score: 3, Funny

      Actually the real problem right now is that they're concerned the changes in air pressure and water vapor may cause premature degradation of the micro-USB connector on the end of the cord.

      --
      You are not alone. This is not normal. None of this is normal.
    3. Re:No chance. by welshie · · Score: 4, Informative

      Actually, you can already get from London to Paris very efficiently with electric power, and yes, there is a power cord running all the way. It's called the Eurostar trains, and go from city centre to city centre quickly, with no silly faffing around with airports.

  2. 10 years by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 4, Funny

    10 years you say?

    Let me consult the chart.

  3. The mass of batteries never changes by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Insightful

    The problem with all battery operated vehicles is that as the batteries get depleted, their mass never changes. With Jet fuel, gasoline, etc, as the fuel gets depleted, the mass is reduced, and thus the energy required to move the vehicle is reduced.