Sustainable Technology
How does the Climate Impulse aircraft aim to achieve zero-emission flight around the world?
The Climate Impulse aircraft utilizes green hydrogen produced through renewable electricity, which is then liquefied and stored in two large fuselage tanks. This innovative two-seater plane, piloted by Rafael Dinelli and Bertrand Piccard, aims to circumnavigate the globe non-stop over nine days while producing zero emissions. The design features a cockpit between the two massive fuel tanks, allowing sufficient hydrogen storage for the complete journey. By powering flight with green hydrogen rather than conventional fossil fuels, Climate Impulse demonstrates the viability of sustainable aviation technology that could revolutionize the industry's approach to decarbonization.
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WION
01:00 - 01:32
What is the purpose of the Climate Impulse project?
The Climate Impulse project aims beyond just setting a record with a liquid hydrogen-powered aircraft flying around the world. Its primary purpose is to create a demonstrator that can transfer sustainable hydrogen propulsion technology to civil aviation with greater passenger capacity. If successful, Climate Impulse will mark a milestone in sustainable air travel development. Backed by aerospace giant Airbus, the project focuses on advancing hydrogen-based aviation research through a lightweight, highly efficient aircraft capable of harnessing energy from atmospheric turbulence. Despite technical challenges ahead, the scheduled test flight in 2026 will determine whether this technology can truly pave the way for cleaner aviation solutions.
Watch clip answer (01:08m)WION
02:46 - 03:54
What is Bertrand Piccard's latest aviation project and how does it build on his previous achievements?
Bertrand Piccard's latest venture is the Climate Impulse project, which aims to revolutionize sustainable air travel using hydrogen power. This builds on his previous success with Solar Impulse, which in 2015 made history by completing a journey around the world powered entirely by sunlight. While Solar Impulse demonstrated the potential of solar aviation, Climate Impulse takes sustainable flight further by utilizing liquid hydrogen technology. The ambitious two-seater aircraft is designed to fly non-stop for nine days, converting green hydrogen into electricity for propulsion, representing a significant advancement toward cleaner aviation solutions targeted for 2028.
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WION
01:32 - 01:46
What are the three priority areas driving China's economic growth?
China has designated three key sectors as drivers of its economic growth. These priority areas are electric vehicles, lithium ion batteries, and solar cells, collectively known as the 'new three.' The industry's expansion has been primarily fueled by strong domestic demand within China's market. Additionally, Chinese manufacturers have successfully increased their global market share, extending their reach internationally. This strategic focus on green technology demonstrates China's commitment to sustainable development while positioning the country as a leader in the renewable energy and electric transportation sectors.
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Al Jazeera English
00:47 - 01:04
How could China's lithium export restrictions impact global EV battery production?
China's lithium export restrictions could significantly delay lithium extraction projects, potentially affecting the production of over 14 million EV batteries annually. This creates a severe bottleneck in the global supply chain as China has a 20-year head start in lithium processing technology that gives them a significant advantage. Companies are rushing to develop independent sorbent technologies, but catching up to China's established processing capabilities presents a major challenge. If Beijing fully enforces these export controls, the global lithium market would face severe constraints, disrupting EV supply chains worldwide and forcing Western automakers to seek alternative solutions.
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WION
01:33 - 01:58
How did Ripan begin his journey in solar vehicle technology?
Ripan began his journey in solar vehicle technology by making a three-wheeler prototype where he attached solar panels on top of the vehicle. This initial modification sparked his interest and passion for sustainable transportation solutions, giving him the motivation to continue developing the concept further. This first prototype served as the foundation for his current work with Hope and Innovations, focused on green mobility solutions. His early experimentation with solar panels on vehicles led to his involvement with Oil India's SNEH startup program, which has supported his continued innovations in sustainable energy integration for transportation.
Watch clip answer (00:10m)
WION
01:19 - 01:30