Sirius Aviation AG debuts hydrogen propulsion powertrain

Sirius Aviation AG unveiled the world's first Hydrogen-Electric Ducted Fan Propulsion System for the Sirius Jet. The big reveal took place on Jan. 17 at the Payerne Airport in Switzerland and involved partners and supporters. The event highlighted the new propulsion system as well as the Sirius Jet, the world's first regional hydrogen-electric VTOL aircraft, unveiled on Jan. 10. The first ignition of the hydrogen engine took place in the presentation room, emitting water vapor and no pollutants.RELATED STORY: Sirius Aviation AG unveils world's first hydrogen-powered VTOL jet The company thanked its partners and visionary team for their support in the recent milestone. Attendees included John Schoenbeck, director of strategic partnership at BMW Group Designworks; Tommy Forsgren, lead designer at BCM Group Designworks; Jonathan Herzog, CCO of Sauber Group F1; Giuseppe Sernicola, senior VP at Leonardo Aerostructures; and Zigmund Bluvband, president of ALD Service. Partners expressed optimism over the reveal and the future of hydrogen in aviation. "This project is about innovation, transportation, and mobility; making it the perfect realm for Designworks," Schoenbeck said. "Our work spans across exterior and interior design, color material, user interface, and experience design. We are very proud to be part of the journey of this pioneering company that sets out to revolutionize air travel." "I am very proud and happy to see the system here today and can guarantee that we, Sauber Group will further continue this collaboration; and invest a lot from our power to help make Sirius Jet fly soon," Herzog said. "This is a historic event and a testament to our commitment to sustainable aviation," Sirius CEO Alexey Popov said. Sirius unveiled the Sirius jet, called the first hydrogen-powered VTOL aircraft in the world. The jet will be produced in two different versions, one for private travel and one for commercial. The jet will be able to cruise for up to 1,150 miles at speeds of up to 323 miles per hour and altitudes of 30,000 feet, also offering low noise levels of just 60 decibels. The Sirius Millennium is being made for commercial stints, able to accommodate up to five passengers. With an extra seat, the Millennium has less room for hydrogen tanks, leading to a range of about 650 miles. The jet is expected to take flight in 2025. "Together, we are ushering in a new era of eco-friendly aviation, proving that innovation and environmental responsibility can indeed go hand in hand," Popov said. "Join us in celebrating this monumental step towards a greener future."