I know this is a bit off topic, but we rotor heads like to try the latest and greatest stuff.

I am considering producing state-of-the art, very lightweight, ultra long life, starting batteries for experimental aircraft. They won't be cheap to make, however. I'd like to get some feedback as to the market for these before I put a big effort into this.

Here are the specs:

14 volts
480 cranking amps
8.8 amp-hours
2.7 pounds (Yes, that is right.)
10 year warrantee (prorated)
Completely sealed battery
Safer than lead acid or NiCad
Built-in electronic monitoring system warns of over-voltage, under-voltage, over heating, or internal battery fault.

That is all the good news. The downside is that they will cost about $475. I'm not sure how many folks would want a 10 year battery (at least) that weighs about 1/3 as much as an "ordinary" battery, but costs four times as much.

The specs above are real. I have personally tested these batteries and they do, indeed, perform this well, so that is not an issue. I know I can make these. I'm going to make one for myself. The question is, will folks buy them if I produce them?

Let me know if you think you would be interested in such a high-tech battery at this cost.

Bill Dube'