Collaboration Aims to Create a VTOL Aircraft Capable of Travelling 600km or Carrying 200kg for 250km
H3 Dynamics, a Toulouse-based company, has partnered with Oxford University spin-off Qdot Technology. They will develop a hydrogen-powered, long-range vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft. The new VTOL drone is designed to travel up to 600km. Alternatively, it can carry a payload of 200kg for distances of up to 250km to remote locations.
H3 Dynamics Provides Hydrogen-Electric Fuel Cell System
H3 Dynamics has provided its hydrogen-electric fuel cell system for this collaboration. This ensures that the aircraft meets the necessary qualification and validation requirements set by aviation authorities. The integration of H3 Dynamics’ fuel cell technology is key in developing this innovative VTOL drone.
Qdot Technology’s Unique Thermal Management Approach
Qdot Technology, an Oxford University spin-off, brings its thermal management expertise to the project. The company’s approach covers various elements of the aircraft powertrain. This provides a unique advantage over traditional UAV developers and system integrators. The thermal management technology is crucial in ensuring optimal performance of the hydrogen-powered drone.
Increased Range and Payload Capacity
The new UAV is expected to offer increased range and payload capacity compared to similar-sized aircraft and helicopters. Key advantages include:
- Extended range, surpassing currently deployed aircraft for middle-mile aerial logistics, medical transport, and search and rescue operations
- Higher payload capacity, enabling the transport of heavier goods and equipment to remote locations
- Combination of H3 Dynamics’ fuel cell technology and Qdot Technology’s hybrid powertrain strategy, resulting in enhanced performance
Dr. Jack Nicholas, CEO of Qdot Technology, stated, “Our hybrid powertrain strategy enables uncrewed aircraft to meet the necessary range and payload capacity. This paves the way for new applications. H3 Dynamics’ fuel cell systems are now an integral part of Qdot’s hybrid powertrain.”
H3 Dynamics’ Shift to Liquid Hydrogen Storage
In 2023, H3 Dynamics announced it would use Hylium Industries’ liquid hydrogen storage in its hydrogen-electric drones. The shift to liquid hydrogen storage represents a significant increase in capabilities for UAVs. According to Hylium, cryogenic tanks can store three times more energy than compressed gas.
The collaboration between H3 Dynamics and Qdot Technology marks an important step forward. They aim to develop long-range, hydrogen-powered VTOL drones. By integrating advanced fuel cell technology and innovative thermal management solutions, this partnership aims to revolutionize the capabilities of uncrewed aircraft for a wide range of applications.
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