Flux Power Unveils Gas Detection for Airport Batteries and New Product Lines
The new safety feature, developed with a major airline, is scheduled for initial shipments in the first quarter of 2027.
Lithium-ion battery manufacturer Flux Power has announced a suite of new technologies and product configurations, including integrated gas detection for airport ground support equipment (GSE) batteries, two new S24 battery configurations for material handling, and the SkyVOX telematics device.
What Happened
Flux Power introduced a gas sensor that continuously monitors conditions inside GSE batteries and communicates directly with the battery management system (BMS). If a potential thermal event is detected, the BMS can alert a CAN-integrated vehicle and automatically shut down power. For batteries equipped with the new SkyVOX telematics, these events are also reported to Flux Power's SkyEMS energy-management platform. The company stated that this gas detection system exceeds current industry standards. Developed in collaboration with a major airline, the system was demonstrated at Flux Power's headquarters in Vista, California. Initial shipments to an airline end-user customer are expected in the first quarter of calendar 2027, with a retrofit program for existing batteries also planned.
The company also expanded its S24 battery line for material handling equipment with two new configurations. The Compact-Compartment Configuration is a new truck adapter and charger setup designed for a forklift OEM's truck with a compact battery compartment, developed with a national account customer. The Heavy Duty S24, a maximum-capacity configuration for walkie stacker trucks, is currently undergoing testing and qualification with a major OEM partner.
Additionally, Flux Power launched SkyVOX, a telematics device that adds battery location tracking and charging alerts to help fleet managers identify connected units and those needing charge. The device utilizes cellular and GPS antennas mounted outside the battery enclosure to prevent signal blockage when installed deep within steel truck compartments, addressing connectivity issues common with internal antennas. Shipments for SkyVOX are expected to begin in the fourth quarter of calendar 2026.
Why It Matters
The introduction of integrated gas detection aims to enhance safety protocols for airport ground support equipment, which operates in high-stakes environments. Mark Barmettler, Vice President of Engineering at Flux Power, emphasized that safety on the ramp is non-negotiable for airline customers. He noted that the integrated gas detection provides operators with an added layer of protection and real-time visibility, potentially making lithium-ion adoption more attractive for GSE fleets. The new S24 configurations and SkyVOX telematics further expand Flux Power's utility in material handling and fleet management sectors.
The Bottom Line
Flux Power is rolling out new safety and connectivity features for its battery products, with gas detection for GSE batteries scheduled for shipment in early 2027 and the SkyVOX telematics device expected to ship in late 2026.
