FutureFlight
Developer of Diamond Battery Says a Self-Charging Power Supply for eVTOL Aircraft Is Coming Soon
NDB is pioneering the use of nanodiamond batteries that recharge themselves and have almost unlimited life.
NDB nano diamond battery
NDB Inc is developing nano diamond batteries for electric aircraft. [Image: NDB]

A California-based startup called NDB Inc. says it is poised to offer a nanodiamond-based alternative to current battery technology that will be more efficient and sustainable for electric aircraft. On August 25, the company announced that it has completed proof-of-concept tests on its self-charging nanodiamond battery, achieving what it claims is a breakthrough 40 percent charge, compared with charge collection efficiency rates of just 15 percent with commercial diamonds.

NDB also announced that it has signed up two undisclosed launch customers for a beta version of the technology. It says that one is a leading aerospace, defense, and security manufacturer, and the other is a Europe-based leader in nuclear fuel cycle products. Electric aircraft and vehicles are among the anticipated early adopters of the technology.