HERMES — Hydrogen-Electric Robotic Mobility for Extended-range Systems

HERMES – Hydrogen-Electric Robotic Mobility for Extended-range Systems aims to develop, integrate and validate an advanced hydrogen-electric powertrain for an autonomous unmanned ground vehicle (UGV), directly addressing IH-MIE Challenge 4 – Integration with other mobility solutions. This challenge specifically supports hydrogen integration into existing vehicle platforms, hybrid architectures and range-extension solutions.

HERMES combines a PEM fuel cell, compressed hydrogen storage system, buffer battery, power electronics, electric drivetrain, thermal and safety systems, autonomous control and intelligent energy management within a modular robotic ground platform. The fuel cell provides continuous electrical power and extends operational range, while the battery supports peak loads and dynamic operation. Intelligent energy management optimises power distribution according to vehicle load, terrain and operating conditions.

The project will focus on engineering optimisation, hydrogen-electric system integration, UGV chassis and mobility performance, control and autonomous movement, hydrogen safety, and validation under representative operating conditions. Testing will assess key parameters including operational autonomy, hydrogen consumption, energy efficiency, payload capability, refuelling time, mobility and system reliability.

Starting from TRL 6, HERMES will demonstrate a credible pathway towards pre-commercial readiness through system-level testing and validation, in line with IH-MIE requirements.

The resulting modular architecture will provide a scalable solution for autonomous logistics, industrial operations, infrastructure inspection and specialised ground mobility, demonstrating how hydrogen fuel cells can extend the capabilities of battery-electric robotic platforms and supporting wider deployment of hydrogen technologies in the European mobility ecosystem.