HyFlux Welcomes NZ Government’s $71M Investment in Superconductivity as a Catalyst for Zero-Emission Aviation
Wellington, New Zealand – 5 May 2025
HyFlux Ltd, a leader in superconducting propulsion systems, proudly welcomes the New Zealand Government’s landmark $71 million investment in the Paihau–Robinson Research Institute. Announced by Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology Dr Shane Reti, this funding will establish an advanced platform in Future Magnetic and Materials Technologies, placing New Zealand at the forefront of clean tech and deep science innovation.
For HyFlux, this investment directly accelerates our ongoing strategic partnership with Robinson Research Institute, Victoria University of Wellington, and Wellington UniVentures, announced in October 2024. Together, we are developing fully superconducting, lightweight aviation motors powered by cryogenic green hydrogen – enabling the transition to zero-emission flight.
“We are thrilled to join forces with such esteemed institutions to take our collective vision of zero-emission aviation to new heights,” said Paul Perera, CEO and Co-Founder of HyFlux. “This bold government support validates the significance of superconducting technology and enables us to accelerate from research to real-world deployment.”
The partnership focuses on scaling 3MW-class superconducting motors for aircraft like the ATR-72, with future expansion into maritime propulsion and distributed electric systems. These motors, developed using breakthroughs in flux-pumped field windings and cryogenic cooling, are a cornerstone for sustainable transport that doesn’t compromise on performance.
Professor Rod Badcock, Director at the Robinson Research Institute, highlighted the impact of the initiative:
“This platform and partnership are about building real capability. We’re addressing one of the most critical challenges in transport decarbonisation through superconductivity – and HyFlux is the ideal commercial partner to take this technology to market.”
Wellington UniVentures CEO Pierre Malou added:
“Robinson has a proven track record of translating research into commercial impact. With HyFlux, we’re enabling real-world solutions that can redefine the future of aviation.”
Industry and Policy Alignment
The HyFlux–Robinson collaboration aligns with national and international efforts to decarbonise aviation, including the Jet Zero Council initiatives in the UK, Australia, and now New Zealand. Our consortium engages closely with global leaders such as with a shared goal of certifying and deploying these advanced systems by the end of the decade. HyFlux is working with all of the Aircraft manufacturers on zero emissions and will continue to build a solution which meets the future Zero Emissions needs of Single Aisle Aircraft, more news on the enablers and funding very soon.
About HyFlux
HyFlux is a deep-tech company focused on superconducting electric propulsion for aerospace and transport sectors. By combining cryogenic hydrogen and high-temperature superconductors, we develop motors with ultra-high power density and efficiency – enabling truly zero-emission flight and shipping.
Website: www.hyflux.aero
Email: paul.perera@hyflux.aero
Media Contacts
Paul Perera – CEO, HyFlux
Email: paul.perera@hyflux.aero
Wellington UniVentures
Email: info@wellingtonuniventures.com
