Nov 27, 2023 - Technology

Hydrogen-powered drones could fly longer, farther

Joann Muller

Image of a large hydrogen-powered drone flying over a large solar panel field — Rendering courtesy of Heven Drones

Hydrogen is having a moment, thanks to Biden administration incentives to boost production — and that's spurring development of hydrogen-powered transport, including drones.

Why it matters: Hydrogen-powered drones could potentially fly farther and carry bigger payloads than those relying on heavy electric batteries. That opens doors to new uses, like advanced logistics.

Driving the news: Israeli startup Heven Drones unveiled today two new hydrogen-powered drones that it says represent "a significant leap in endurance and precision."

Both will be deployed in the U.S., the company said.

By the numbers: Heven Drones' H2D200 can carry up to 10 pounds — twice what the typical electric drone of its size can carry — and has a potential range of 317 miles, with up to four hours of flight time.

The H2D250 can carry up to 22 pounds and has a potential range of 466 miles, with up to eight hours of flight time.

What they're saying: "We are at a pivotal moment in the drone industry," CEO Bentzion Levinson said in a statement.

"With these hydrogen-powered drones, we are redefining the possibilities of what drones can achieve, while leveraging a clean and readily available fuel source."

Yes, but: There's still a lot of work to do to build out hydrogen infrastructure in the U.S.

Add Axios on Google

Hydrogen-powered drones could fly longer, farther

What to read next