HyLight secures 13 million euros in new funding

HyLight has raised 13 million euros in a new funding round, with support from investors such as Rubio Impact Ventures, DRW, and Teampact Ventures, as well as existing backers like Y Combinator and Ring Capital. This follows a previous funding round of 3.7 million euros in April 2024.

HyLight’s origins and airship technology

Founded in 2022 by Martin Bocken, Théo Hoenen, Thomas Laporte, and Josef Rokusek, HyLight designs and operates autonomous hydrogen-powered airships called "HyLighters." These have been seen flying over Île-de-France and the Champs-Élysées during a VivaTech anniversary event last year.

HyLighters’ capabilities and applications

The HyLighters are used for long-distance surveillance and inspection of critical infrastructure, such as power lines, railway tracks, and gas pipelines. According to CEO Martin Bocken, they perform these tasks with greater precision and fewer risks than helicopters. They can fly up to 10 hours and cover 350 km, carrying up to 10 kg of sensors like LiDAR, cameras, and methane detectors.

HyLight’s competitive position

HyLight positions its airships as an alternative to helicopters, drones, and satellites. Helicopters are costly and polluting, drones have limited range, and satellites offer only localized coverage. HyLight’s airships aim to provide a more efficient and environmentally friendly solution for infrastructure monitoring.

Current operations and future goals

Currently, HyLight operates four airships and works with companies like Enedis, Vinci, and SNCF Réseau to monitor their networks. The company plans to scale up to 15 airships by 2027 and expand its data analysis and European infrastructure. It also intends to create a digital twin of the areas it surveils, enabling broader applications beyond infrastructure monitoring.

Expansion and hiring plans

HyLight aims to hire 50 new employees in fields like engineering, AI, and commercial development. It plans to accelerate its European expansion, focusing on Germany and the Netherlands, to grow its operations and market presence.