AFC Energy signed a hydrogen fuel cell supply and collaboration agreement with Urban-Air Port, which designs the ground structure for electrically-powered drones and vertical take-off aircraft (eVTOLS).
Working with Hyundai Motor, Urban-Air Port announced plans today to develop 65 eVTOLS airports worldwide, using sustainable energy solutions.
As a first step in the partnership AFC will lease a zero-emission hydrogen power generator to Urban-Air Port's first site, Air-One in Coventry, to support the vehicle charging infrastructure.
READ: Flying cars to get first dedicated airport in Coventry as part of Hyundai collaboration
Air-One is the first of more than 200 discreet sites identified for prospective development by Urban-Air Port in the next five years.
The site is scheduled to open early next year with AFC leasing an operational hydrogen fuel cell system for a three week period.
As well as eVTOLS, Air-One will also accommodate electric buses, vehicles and scooters.
Urban-Air Port says the physical footprint of its sites is 60% smaller than a traditional heliport and thanks to “innovative construction” can be installed in a matter of days with zero carbon emissions.
Ricky Sandhu, Urban Air Port’s executive chairman, said: "Zero-emission, off-grid power is a critical component of our offering at Urban-Air Port and AFC Energy are the perfect partner to provide that capability with their world-leading Hydrogen Fuel Cell technology.
Adam Bond, AFC Energy’s CEO, added: "Urban-Air Port's aspiration to establish a global network of urban airports and unlock clean air mobility worldwide affirms its disruptor qualities within the eVTOL and autonomous aircraft space.
“AFC Energy is pleased to be partnering with Urban-Air Port in support of its bold vision to decarbonise air and ground-based transportation through its modular hub ecosystems in both dense urban and remote locations.”