Natilus Taps ZeroAvia To Supply Hydrogen-Electric Powertrain Option
Natilus has selected ZeroAvia to supply its hydrogen-electric powertrain as an option for the autonomous, blended-wing-body (BWB) Kona aircraft.
As part of its new strategic partnership, announced May 25, U.S./UK-based ZeroAvia will offer its 600-kW ZA-600 fuel cell powertrain as an option for the Natilus Kona, an autonomous cargo feeder aircraft with a 900-nm range and 4.3-ton payload. The aircraft’s conventional version, currently under development by the San Diego-based startup, will be powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-67d turboprop engines.
Speaking to the AAM Report, Natilus CEO Alexey Matyushev said the Kona’s BWB configuration is a “natural fit” for hydrogen-electric propulsion, noting that the aircraft’s large, diamond-shaped cargo bay configuration holds 60% more storage volume compared to traditional tube-and-wing aircraft.
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