Hybrid Drone Propulsion Pioneer Lowental Hybrid Lands $5M

Lowental Hybrid, an Israeli company specializing in advanced hybrid propulsion systems for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and drones, has closed a $5 million Seed funding round. The investment, led by Ace Capital Partners with participation from Palo Alto Networks founder Nir Zuk and the Israel Innovation Authority, aims to accelerate the commercialization of Lowental’s technology, which promises to significantly extend drone flight times.

Founded in 2018 by Itay and Netta Lowental, the company focuses on overcoming one of the UAV industry’s most persistent limitations: restricted flight duration. Lowental’s hybrid propulsion systems combine electric and fuel-based technologies, reportedly increasing flight times by up to fivefold while maintaining the quiet operation of electric power. This could have far-reaching implications for sectors reliant on drone technology, including defense, energy, and agriculture.

“We are witnessing rapid advancements in the UAV field, where improving flight performance has become a fundamental necessity,” said Doron Fridman, CEO of Lowental and a retired Israeli Air Force colonel. “Our system delivers a true hybrid solution, uniquely combining electric and fuel propulsion to extend flight duration without compromising reliability.”

Lowental’s product portfolio includes the LH Series, designed for fixed-wing UAVs and vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) platforms, and the GH Series, a hybrid generator system tailored for multirotor drones. Both are aimed at enhancing operational flexibility and expanding mission capabilities for drone manufacturers globally.

The company’s board is chaired by Major General (Ret.) Amikam Norkin, a former commander of the Israeli Air Force and co-founder of Ace Capital, reflecting its strong ties to the defense sector.

“Improving performance of UAVs and drones is a core strategic need, and delivering a step-change in flight time and distance sets Lowental to transform the propulsion systems sector profoundly, and to set itself in a category of its own,” said Amit Pilowsky, co-founder of Ace Capital Partners. “We are very excited about the existing commercial traction, and for what is ahead.”

Source: CTech