Solar Impulse has 17,248 solar cells that supply the plane with renewable energy. The cells recharge four lithium polymer batteries totaling 633 kilograms (1,395 pounds) each. Covestro was responsible for the design and construction of the Si2 cockpit which utilizes advanced polyurethane and polycarbonate systems, significantly reducing the weight of the plane while ensuring ultimate protection for the pilot.
Another player in the development of the Solar Impulse is Dassault Systèmes, whose engineers designed the plane’s wings, which are wider than a Boeing 747-8I, with carbon fiber composites which had to be as light as possible while providing the lift needed at a cruising speed of around 90 kph. Overall, the plane weighs just 2,300 kilograms (5,070 pounds) – the largest aircraft ever built with such a low weight.
