Samsung 20S EVTOL Maximise flight time - optimise the cell selection, duty cycle and flight speed to maximise flight time.
Discover the Samsung 20S cell, designed for EVTOL applications to maximise flight time and optimise performance in demanding environments.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor for versatile applications.
Nominal capacity of 7.2 Wh and 2.0 Ah for reliable energy supply.
Top-quartile power density (+58% vs median 750 W/kg) for brisk current draws.
Volumetric energy density of 415 Wh/l, ensuring compact design.
Maximum continuous discharge of 30 A, supporting high-performance UAVs.

About the Cell
The Samsung 20S cell features a cylindrical 18650 form factor, providing a nominal capacity of 7.2 Wh and 2.0 Ah. With a volumetric energy density of 415 Wh/l, it is designed to meet the demands of high-performance applications such as EVTOL. The gravimetric energy density stands at 150 Wh/kg, making it suitable for lightweight drone battery packs. Additionally, the cell boasts a volumetric power density of 6228 W/l, which is among the highest in the database, and a gravimetric power density of 2250 W/kg, ensuring it can handle high discharge rates effectively. This cell is engineered for optimal performance in demanding environments, making it an excellent choice for UAV battery pack design.
Application Challenges
In EVTOL applications, maximising flight time is crucial. The Samsung 20S cell's specifications allow for optimised cell selection, duty cycle management, and flight speed adjustments. The nominal capacity of 7.2 Wh is essential for extending drone flight time, while the maximum continuous discharge of 30 A ensures that the cell can deliver the necessary power during critical phases of flight. Additionally, the high energy density of the Samsung 20S cell helps to improve UAV mission endurance, allowing drones to operate longer without the need for frequent recharges. This is particularly important in scenarios where drones are deployed in extreme environments or for heavy-lift missions, where every minute of airtime counts.
Why this Cell
The Samsung 20S cell is an ideal choice for EVTOL applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge of 30 A, it is positioned in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 30 A, ensuring it can support high-performance UAVs. The volumetric energy density of 415 Wh/l is significantly higher than the median of 541 Wh/l, making it suitable for long endurance drone batteries. Furthermore, the gravimetric energy density of 150 Wh/kg is around the median, providing a balanced performance for weight-sensitive applications. These metrics highlight the cell's capability to optimise flight time while maintaining safety and efficiency in UAV battery optimisation.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a critical role in optimising the performance of the Samsung 20S cell in EVTOL applications. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can accurately predict how the cell will perform under various conditions. This allows for the selection of the best cells for UAVs based on real-world scenarios, ensuring that the chosen battery can deliver the required thrust and energy throughout the entire flight envelope. For instance, simulating the thermal rise and voltage sag during high discharge rates helps prevent overheating and ensures safe battery operation. Additionally, accurate modelling of usable energy enables engineers to make informed decisions about duty cycles and flight speeds, ultimately leading to improved drone powertrain efficiency and mission success.


