United Airlines has invested in Electric Power Systems (EPS), a company producing battery technology for uses in the air and on the ground.

EPS’s compatible module technology can be adapted to support a variety of batteries with United looking at using the technology in its ground equipment and electric aircraft.

United says EPS’s battery modules could be used to charge electric ground equipment, electric aircraft when they come into service, electrified auxiliary power unit start products and electrified cold-chain storage product for cargo containers.

EPS aims to provide a battery ecosystem for aviation from packs on aircraft to charging stations on the ground, which is designed to keep costs low and provide rapid charges without degrading battery life.

United is also exploring ways to move its pilot training academy, Aviate, away from internal combustion-powered training aircraft to electric ones, with EPS’s powertrain potentially serving as the core propulsion system for a family of future electric aircraft concepts.

Michael Leskinen, President of United Airlines Ventures, said: “What makes EPS’s technology different and exciting is the scope of operational possibilities where we have the option to deploy it today and, in the future, to help electrify and decarbonise our operations.”

Nathan Millecam, CEO of EPS, added: “United’s investment will enable us to scale our operations and expedite the development of our cutting-edge powertrain solutions. By working together, our aim is to revolutionise air travel and build a more sustainable future for the industry.”