NLR and zepp.solutions Collaborate for Hydrogen-Powered Flight Innovation
Key Ideas
- NLR partners with zepp.solutions to develop a fuel cell system for a hydrogen-powered demo flight on the Pipistrel Velis Electro in 2026.
- The collaboration aims to overcome challenges in integrating hydrogen components for aviation, focusing on airworthiness and safety.
- Both NLR and zepp.solutions emphasize the importance of sharing knowledge and expertise to ensure the success of the project.
- The project serves as a valuable learning opportunity for future implementations of hydrogen technology in the aviation sector.
The National Aerospace Laboratory (NLR) has taken a significant step towards achieving sustainable aviation by partnering with zepp.solutions to develop a fuel cell system for a demo flight using liquid hydrogen in 2026. This collaboration will see NLR's electric research aircraft, the Pipistrel Velis Electro, equipped with a hydrogen propulsion line. The project, led by Arjen Kloosterman from NLR, aims to acquire knowledge and experience in integrating hydrogen components into manned aviation, focusing on challenges like airworthiness and safety. Jan Bot of zepp.solutions highlights the value of their fuel cell technology in aviation and the unique challenges it presents. The cooperation between NLR and zepp.solutions is crucial for leveraging each other's expertise and ensuring the success of the demo flight. This initiative is not only a key milestone in sustainable aviation but also a stepping stone for future advancements in hydrogen technology within the aviation industry.