Eco-Friendly Air Travel
Boeing's Fuel Cell Airplane
In efforts to be environnmentally friendly, Boeing is starting ground and flight testing on a newly completed research project called the "Fuel Cell Demonstrator." This new airplane "uses a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell/lithium-ion battery hybrid system to power an electric motor, which is coupled to a conventional propeller. The fuel cell provides all power for the cruise phase of flight. " Boeing spokesperson commented that "'given the efficiency and enviornmental benefits of emerging fuel and cell technology, Boeing wants to be on the forefront of developing and applying it to aerospace products."
Trend Themes
1. Fuel Cell Technology - Boeing's use of a fuel cell/lithium-ion battery hybrid system for powering an electric motor presents opportunities for disruptive innovation in the energy industry.
2. Eco-friendly Transportation - Boeing's focus on environmentally friendly air travel highlights the need for disruptive innovation in the transportation sector to reduce carbon emissions.
3. Renewable Energy in Aerospace - Boeing's integration of fuel cell technology in aircraft showcases the potential for disruptive innovation in the aerospace industry by incorporating renewable energy sources.
Industry Implications
1. Aerospace - The aerospace industry can explore disruptive innovation opportunities by incorporating fuel cell technology for more sustainable air travel.
2. Energy - The energy industry can explore disruptive innovation opportunities by investing in the development of fuel cell technology for various applications, including transportation.
3. Transportation - The transportation industry can explore disruptive innovation opportunities by adopting and implementing environmentally friendly technologies, such as fuel cell-powered vehicles and aircraft.