Hydrogen-Powered Flying Taxi Takes Zero-Emission Flight

Joby Aviation has achieved a landmark milestone with the successful flight of its hydrogen-electric air taxi, which covered over 800 kilometres across California, USA, producing only water as a by-product.

This groundbreaking aircraft, which can take off and land vertically, builds on Joby’s battery-electric air taxi programme and showcases hydrogen’s potential for emissions-free regional travel. The flight demonstrated the vehicle’s remarkable range, landing with 10% of its hydrogen fuel remaining.

The hydrogen-electric air taxi, a modified version of Joby’s battery-electric prototype, includes a 40-kilogram liquid hydrogen fuel tank and a fuel cell system designed by its subsidiary, H2FLY.

This system converts hydrogen into electricity, water and heat, powering the aircraft’s six electric motors, with batteries providing extra power during take-off and landing.

JoeBen Bevirt, Chief Executive Officer of Joby, expressed excitement about the future of clean air travel, highlighting that the technology could revolutionise regional journeys without the need for traditional airports.

Joby Aviation plans to commercialise its battery-electric air taxi by 2025, with the hydrogen-electric version to follow after further testing and regulatory approval. The infrastructure, landing pads and operations will be shared between both types of vehicles, ensuring a seamless transition to the more environmentally-friendly flight.

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