Rolls-Royce Unveils Hydrogen-Ready mtu Engines for Decarbonized Power Generation
Key Insights
Researchers at the University of Seville have successfully integrated a green hydrogen fuel cell into a MUGIN 350 drone for emission-free urban air mobility.
The drone's hybrid propulsion system uses hydrogen generated by solar electrolysis, emitting only water vapor during flight operations.
A key innovation includes a conformable hydrogen tank designed for aerodynamic efficiency and safety, developed in collaboration with Go Ahead Solutions.
Part of the European U5-Space project, this initiative aims to position Spain as a leader in intelligent drone traffic management and sustainable aerial logistics.
Researchers at the University of Seville have successfully integrated a green hydrogen-powered fuel cell into a MUGIN 350 type unmanned aircraft, marking a significant advancement in emission-free urban air mobility. The pioneering project, led by Professors Carlos Bordons Alba and Sergio Esteban Roncero, alongside researcher Javier Quintana Hernández, is a key component of the European U5-Space initiative, which focuses on intelligent drone traffic management within urban environments. This development, publicly announced around August 2025, positions Seville as a hub for sustainable aviation technology.
The propulsion system employs a hybrid architecture, combining high-density lithium-ion batteries with a hydrogen fuel cell. Crucially, the hydrogen utilized is generated through electrolysis powered by solar energy, ensuring a completely renewable and emission-free energy cycle, with water vapor as the sole operational byproduct. A notable engineering challenge involved the integration of a conformable hydrogen tank, meticulously designed by Go Ahead Solutions to seamlessly adapt to the drone's aerodynamic profile while ensuring optimal safety and storage efficiency.
Prior to its real-world deployment, the system underwent rigorous laboratory testing, simulating diverse mission profiles to validate its performance and reliability. Currently, the drone is undergoing comprehensive flight tests to assess its capabilities under actual operational conditions, gathering critical data for further optimization and scalability. This iterative testing approach ensures the system's robustness and readiness for practical applications.
The U5-Space project benefits from funding via CDTI through Next Generation EU funds, fostering a robust collaborative ecosystem. The consortium comprises leading entities such as Zelenza, Grupo Amper, GEOAI, Fundetel, Cedint-UPM, and DIT ETSIT UPM, reflecting a multidisciplinary commitment to advancing Spain's leadership in renewable energy-driven urban aerial mobility. This research also aligns with the University of Seville's ENGREEN Excellence Unit, which is dedicated to driving the energy transition through innovations in transport electrification, efficient energy management, and clean energy integration.
The successful assembly and validation of the system underscore the critical role of collaborative innovation, involving technical staff and university students. The contributions of scholarship holders Álvaro Gomar and César Morales, alongside workshop teacher Pablo Máiz, highlight the strong synergy between academic research, practical training, and cutting-edge technological development, reinforcing the pipeline for future renewable energy professionals.