Israeli Startup Protects Essential UK Workers From Corona

Israeli startup Aura Air has completed a project to protect 400 buses in the UK and Ireland from the coronavirus using its unique technology for air purification in enclosed spaces.

The system has been installed on tour buses, which have been converted in recent months to safely transport essential workers to their workplaces so that they will not be endangered by having to use public transportation.

The system monitors the air in the bus space including temperature, humidity, amount of carbon dioxide and organic gases and more, and compares this data to the outside air. In the event of any deviation, including the risk of fire or the intrusion of toxic fumes into the bus, the driver receives an immediate alert. The facility allows for five complete replacements of all the air on the bus per hour. A study conducted at Sheba Hospital determined that the system has the ability to destroy various bacteria and viruses, including COVID-19, at a success rate of 99.9%.

Aura Air was founded by the brothers Aviad and Elder Schneiderman and invested in by Merhavia Holdings and Investments, together with other investors, including A.Y. Electronics, which is responsible for manufacturing the systems through Shiratech. The company has 14 employees, and manufactures the system in Israel in collaboration with Beth-El Industries (see our article about the Christian kibbutz of Beth-El and its successful industrial complex). The company’s products are sold to corporate customers such as schools, train stations, offices and large entities in Israel, Europe, the United States and the Far East, as well as to private individuals through the company’s website.