H3 Dynamics, an aerospace hydrogen fuel cell systems developer and XSun, the global leader in solar- electric unmanned aerial systems (UAS) are announcing a strategic partnership to develop world’s first solar-hydrogen-electric UAS.
Both based in France, XSun and H3 Dynamics are starting their collaboration to develop a unique “tri- brid” solar, hydrogen and battery power system, using a smart power management solution that optimizes the aircraft’s available energy at all times. While the sun is available, ultra-thin wing-integrated solar PV cells contribute power to the overall power system, batteries provide peak power during take- off, and a miniaturised hydrogen fuel cell system provides the main cruise power. As on-board micro-grid system, the unique power system will enable record endurance for heavier UAS (VTOL, STOL or HTOL) able to navigate at lower altitudes.