Sora Aviation, a Bristol, UK based eVTOL start-up developing the S-1, a 30-passenger eVTOL 'bus', is pleased to announce the start of its battery testing campaign in collaboration with the University of Bath at its state-of-the-art advanced propulsion R&l centre IAAPS at the Bristol & Bath Science Park.

The campaign focuses on rigorous testing of high energy density battery cells designed to power Sora's S-1 eVTOL. These tests are critical to ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of the company's all-electric propulsion system.

The S-1's higher passenger capacity allows it to offer a quarter of the cost of an air taxi per passenger.

"We are excited to partner with the University of Bath at IAAPS," said Furqan, Sora Aviation's CEO.

"This collaboration is a vital step towards advancing affordable and sustainable large-scale advanced air mobility."

"At lAAPS, we thrive on working with forward-thinking companies like Sora Aviation, whose vision for advanced air mobility aligns with our drive for technological innovation. This battery testing project is a pivotal step toward realising the potential of electric aviation, and our partnership reflects our shared dedication to pioneering innovative energy solutions. Together we are shaping the future of sustainable transport and advancing the technology needed to make electric flight a reality," says Professor Chris Brace, Executive Director, IAAPS.

IAAPS is a centre of excellence for research, innovation, enterprise and education, supporting the transport industry in the transition towards net zero. It boasts 11,300 m' of cutting-edge research facilities, bringing together academia, businesses, innovators and development specialists to deliver the skills and technologies needed for new generations of highly efficient, clean vehicle propulsion systems.