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GVFL has invested in Cellegant Energy Systems, an IIT Gandhinagar professor-founded startup developing hydrogen fuel-cell electric drivetrain systems for drones. The startup raised INR 2.61 crore from investors including GVFL Prarambh Fund Trust, CoCreate Aarambh and IIEC, IIT Gandhinagar’s incubator.
The funds will support development of indigenous hybrid hydrogen fuel-cell drivetrains that keep drones and UAVs airborne longer, reducing dependence on conventional batteries and imported technologies.
The immediate priority is to demonstrate a 35-kg hydrogen-powered drone, and over six to twelve months Cellegant aims to take the programme from technology readiness level three to six. The company will also use the money for IP protection and team building.
Cellegant’s technology combines hybrid power management, passive hydrogen recirculation and solid-state chemical hydrogen storage to improve energy density and endurance.
It is developing systems for UAVs, marine and underwater vehicles, autonomous vehicles, quadruped robots and stationary power and has demonstrated hydrogen fuel-cell systems for UAVs.
“The challenge is not simply to develop a fuel cell, but to make the whole system work reliably outside the laboratory. If a drone can remain airborne longer, it could make a real difference in surveillance, emergency response or agriculture,” said Dr. Atul Bhargav, Founder, Cellegant Energy Systems.
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