Successful entry: FREYA – University of Stuttgart
Successful entry: FREYA – University of Stuttgart
FREYA (Future Research Electric Hydrogen Aircraft) is a versatile hydrogen-electric research aircraft demonstrator featuring an innovative concept with two simultaneously integrated powertrains – a fuel cell and a hydrogen-powered turboshaft engine – which can be operated individually or in combination, complemented by a shared battery system. An integrated LH₂ tank supplies both systems, while a partially distributed propulsion architecture with wingtip propellers enables further research, and a fly-by-wire system supports control of the strongly coupled configuration. The concept stands out thanks to its well-founded structural-mechanical design, a literature-based performance assessment, clearly formulated research questions and well-justified design decisions. In addition, the permanent integration of both propulsion systems eliminates the need to reconfigure the propulsion system, thereby reducing the potential for error.
Credit:
University of Stuttgart/FREYA