Infinity Fuel Cell System Completes 2000km Submerged Autonomous Vehicle Mission

Infinity Fuel Cell and Hydrogen, Inc. announced completion of a 2000+ kilometer fully submerged mission using its Mystic 2000™ fuel cell power plant integrated into a Cellula Robotics Envoy autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV). The achievement demonstrates the viability of hydrogen fuel cell systems for extended underwater operations in realistic subsea mission profiles.

The Mystic 2000™ system utilizes air-independent fuel cell technology originally developed with NASA funding and subsequently supported by the Office of Naval Research (ONR). The technology has previously operated successfully on two Blue Origin New Shepard sub-orbital missions.

According to Infinity CEO William F. Smith, the accomplishment represents a transition from research and development to production, addressing a market need with substantial potential. Extended single-load endurance capability offers operational advantages for both defense and commercial applications, including reduced logistical requirements, improved mission continuity, and potential cost savings for offshore operations.

Cellula Robotics CEO Neil Manning emphasized that conducting the mission in a fully submerged profile reflecting actual subsea operations demonstrates meaningful endurance for operators, enabling fewer vehicle recoveries and more continuous offshore efficiency.

Originally reported by Hydrogen Central. Read the full article →