Revolutionizing Urban Air Mobility with Hydrogen-Powered eVTOLs
Key Ideas
  • The FAA is preparing for advanced air mobility (AAM) by 2028, focusing on safety and integrating innovative technologies for sustainable transportation.
  • Alaka'i Technologies is developing Skai, an eVTOL aircraft using hydrogen fuel cells, aiming to revolutionize transportation with near-zero CO2 emissions and increased efficiency.
  • Simulation tools from Ansys are being utilized to optimize Skai's design, particularly in addressing challenges related to cooling hydrogen fuel cells, ensuring functionality and safety.
  • The use of hydrogen fuel cells in eVTOLs not only contributes to environmental benefits but also supports broader urban air mobility goals and applications, such as humanitarian aid and search and rescue missions.
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is gearing up for the introduction of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles by 2028 as part of advanced air mobility (AAM) initiatives. Alaka'i Technologies stands out in this field by developing Skai, an eVTOL aircraft powered by hydrogen fuel cells, emphasizing the potential of hydrogen as an energy source for air mobility. The company highlights the environmental advantages of hydrogen fuel cells, with near-zero CO2 emissions when produced using renewable energy sources and increased efficiency compared to conventional engines. Urban air mobility (UAM) is seen as a solution to transportation challenges in burgeoning cities, with eVTOLs playing a crucial role in providing efficient and sustainable transport options. Alaka'i aims to make Skai the go-to mode of transportation, prioritizing cleanliness, convenience, and safety. To achieve this, the company partnered with SimuTech Group and utilized Ansys simulation tools to address complex challenges in designing a hydrogen-powered eVTOL, such as cooling the fuel cells efficiently. Ansys Fluent and Ansys Discovery software were pivotal in modeling and analyzing cooling system scenarios for Skai, ensuring optimal performance and safety. The comprehensive simulations covered intricate components like radiators, compressors, and coolants, offering detailed insights into heat transfer dynamics. By leveraging cutting-edge simulation technology, Alaka'i is paving the way for a sustainable and innovative approach to urban air mobility through hydrogen-powered eVTOLs.
ADVANCEH2

Our vision is to be the world's leading online platform for advancing the use of hydrogen as a critical piece needed to deliver net-zero initiatives and the promise of a clean H2 energy future.

© 2024 AdvanceH2, LLC. All rights reserved.