The Korea Electrical Research Institute (KERI) has gained significant attention as a leader in localizing parts and equipment for next-generation aviation mobility (AAM). The recent trend of electrification of mobility has led to power from batteries passing through inverters and electric motors to turn wheels or propellers, creating a series of parts and devices called an 'electric powertrain'. KERI is actively researching and developing to localize the core technologies that make up the electric powertrain, including the power module (electric motor + inverter) and power generation module (generator + converter).
The research team at KERI has been developing technologies related to electric motors and generators for land and marine mobility over the past 20 years, and since 2018, they have expanded their knowledge to include electric powertrain technology for aviation mobility. Despite the aviation sector's strict safety standards, high technical difficulties, and barriers to entry, the KERI research team has responded quickly to technology development and has secured a number of original technologies related to electric powertrains with excellent durability and stability, making them the most advanced in Korea.
KERI's competence is demonstrated by the figures, as over the past five years, the institute has held 23 patents related to electric powertrains, 10 SCI-level papers, and a total of about 500 million won in technology transfer performance, which is the highest level in Korea. Last year, KERI received the Minister of Industry Award for its work in the field, and as interest in AAV and other aviation technologies increases in the market, many companies are visiting KERI, which has the best technology in Korea.
According to Lee Ji-young, the head of KERI's aviation mobility promotion research team, "Korea's aviation mobility electric powertrain market is very poor compared to advanced countries, and we need technology leaders." She further stated that they will work hard to ensure that future mobility equipped with domestic parts and equipment developed by researchers from 'inside KERI' can enjoy the global market.
To lead the development of the Korean aviation mobility parts and equipment industry, KERI aims to constantly develop electric powertrain-related technologies that can be applied in various ways, from drones weighing tens of kilograms to AAV weighing tons of gas. The team leader, Lee Ji-young, recently attended the 'Korea UAM Council Founding Forum (5.2/Jeju ICC)' and presented a session on 'Development Cases and Implications of AAV Core Components'. KERI plans to expand the base of related industries through expert activities.
