A Toulouse-based developer specializing in aviation-grade fuel cell technology, H3 Dynamics, has been chosen by the European Union-funded Clean Aviation research initiative, HyPoTraDe, to provide its cutting-edge fuel cell systems. This project represents a significant step forward in the development of sustainable aviation technologies aimed at reducing emissions and promoting cleaner energy sources.
The HyPoTraDe project, a collaborative effort funded by the Clean Aviation joint undertaking of the European Union, aims to design, assemble, and ground-test a 500kW modular fuel cell-battery hybrid-electric distributed electric propulsion (DEP) powertrain architecture. This innovative system is designed to be scalable, with the potential to expand into the megawatt (MW) class, paving the way for more powerful and efficient aircraft propulsion systems.
Led by aircraft manufacturer Pipistrel, a Textron Inc. company, the HyPoTraDe consortium includes notable partners such as Honeywell International, Netherlands Aerospace Center (NLR), Fraunhofer Society, and academic institutions like the University of Stuttgart and Delft University of Technology.
The data gathered from the HyPoTraDe program will be instrumental in designing and integrating hydrogen-electric powertrains for CS-23 category light aircraft, specifically those seating fewer than 19 passengers. The project will explore innovative methods for utilizing the waste heat generated by fuel cells to enhance the overall efficiency of the propulsion system. Additionally, the powertrain will be tested under conditions that emulate flight altitudes ranging from 15,000 to 25,000 feet, ensuring its viability for real-world applications.
A key component of the project involves creating and validating a digital twin, which will be informed by data collected during testing. This digital twin will enable accurate predictions of the performance of future scaled powertrains, helping to meet the ambitious goals of the Clean Aviation Program. The ultimate objective is to facilitate the entry of hydrogen-powered regional and short-range aircraft into service by 2035.
H3 Dynamics involvement in the HyPoTraDe project is underpinned by previous successful collaborations, including setting a Guinness World Record with Delft University of Technology for achieving a 2,499km flight on just 0.95kg of hydrogen, a feat accomplished with their aerospace-grade fuel cells during the Shell Ecomarathon competition finals in 2023. Additionally, they've supplied advanced fuel cell technology to TU Delft’s AERODELFT Liquid Hydrogen Aircraft program, which has developed a liquid hydrogen-electric powertrain on a scaled-down hydrogen aircraft model.
Beyond its contributions to the HyPoTraDe project, H3 Dynamics is actively expanding its portfolio of hydrogen solutions across the aviation value chain. The company offers a range of advanced hydrogen technologies, from aircraft propulsion systems to ground equipment solutions at airports. To support the broader adoption of hydrogen in aviation, H3 Dynamics is also launching a new generation of low-cost hydrogen production modules for airports, which will complement sustainable aviation fuel production efforts.
With operations in Toulouse, Austin, and Singapore, and enhancing its production capabilities, H3 Dynamics plans to establish a dedicated production line for high-performance aviation solutions in Europe and the Middle East.
H3 Dynamics is shifting toward zero-emission aviation by integrating hydrogen technologies with aerospace needs. The company actively participates in key industry groups and contributes to fuel cell certification strategies for both European and U.S. aviation regulators. Their innovations span a wide range of hydrogen solutions for various aviation applications, from light aircraft to airships. Recognized with the Monaco Hydrogen Prize 2023, H3 Dynamics is a member of several prominent alliances, reflecting its commitment to advancing sustainable aviation technology.
