Joby Aviation Pioneers Hydrogen-Electric Aircraft for Regional Travel

Joby Aviation, currently focused on launching its electric air taxi for urban environments, is setting its sights on a new horizon: regional intercity flights powered by hydrogen.

This ambitious step aims to extend the range of Joby’s eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) vehicles, traditionally powered by batteries.

Demonstrating Hydrogen’s Potential

To showcase the viability of hydrogen-electric propulsion, Joby recently completed a 523-mile test flight using a hydrogen-electric prototype of its eVTOL. This aircraft was equipped with a liquid hydrogen fuel cell and a hydrogen-electric propulsion system, highlighting the potential for longer-range travel. The company’s eVTOLs are designed for short-distance transport within urban settings or from cities to airports, with a current range of 100 miles.

By incorporating hydrogen, Joby aims to expand this capability to regional travel.

“This is a landmark moment for aviation,” said Joby CEO JoeBen Bevirt. “Hydrogen-electric power is a game changer for long-distance travel and prolonged air time.”

The Hydrogen Debate

Hydrogen as a fuel source has been a topic of debate due to its zero emissions credentials and the challenges associated with its production. While it emits only water, hydrogen production is energy-intensive and costly, with most hydrogen currently derived from fossil fuels. However, the sector is gaining momentum with increased investments in green hydrogen, produced using renewable energy sources.

Notably, the Biden administration’s Inflation Reduction Act includes an $8 billion hydrogen hub program to boost the green hydrogen sector.

“Aviation could be a major consumer of green hydrogen,” Bevirt noted, emphasizing hydrogen’s efficiency and lighter weight compared to jet fuel and batteries.

Strategic Acquisitions and Collaborations

In 2021, Joby acquired H2Fly, a German hydrogen aviation startup. H2Fly had previously demonstrated a piloted flight with a liquid hydrogen-powered aircraft, technology that Joby has now integrated into its eVTOLs. This hydrogen fuel cell system powers the aircraft’s six electric motors and recharges its batteries mid-flight.

Joby plans to integrate hydrogen-powered eVTOLs into its existing system with minimal additional investment. “We can enhance our current battery-electric aircraft with a hydrogen-electric range extender,” said Bevirt. “This allows us to use the same infrastructure, including vertiports and operational systems.”

Industry Challenges and Future Prospects

Despite the promise of hydrogen, the industry faces significant infrastructure challenges, such as the need for hydrogen filling stations at airports. Investors like Cyrus Sigari of VC Up Partners acknowledge these hurdles but recognize the potential benefits of hydrogen-powered eVTOLs.

Bevirt remains optimistic, citing ongoing discussions with airports worldwide about establishing liquid hydrogen refueling infrastructure. The recent investment in hydrogen technology, exemplified by ZeroAvia’s deal with American Airlines, further underscores the sector’s growth potential.

While Joby has not provided a timeline for launching its hydrogen-powered eVTOLs, the successful demonstration flight marks the beginning of regulatory and industry discussions. “This is the start of a critical dialogue with regulators to certify this technology,” Bevirt said.

Joby Aviation’s innovative approach to integrating hydrogen into its eVTOLs could revolutionize regional air travel, combining sustainability with extended range and efficiency.