At this year’s Farnborough International Airshow in the UK, the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft sector was buzzing with excitement and deals, as manufacturers showcased their prized creations.
Most eVTOLs in this emerging industry are propeller-driven, with rotors mounted on fixed wings that can rotate, allowing the aircraft to take off and land like a helicopter and fly like a plane. Powered by batteries, they produce zero emissions, though this limits their range and flight time.
eVTOLs are perfectly suited to the transformative wave of urban aviation. Industry forecasts suggest that one day, passengers might be able to ride these aircraft at prices comparable to Uber.
Manufacturers in the Spotlight
Among the exhibitors at this year’s airshow were Germany’s Lilium, Spain’s Crisalion, and the UK’s Vertical Aerospace. Boeing’s subsidiary Wisk Aero and Joby showcased their full-scale prototypes, while Brazil’s Embraer highlighted its Eve prototype, which was recently displayed in Brazil.
Lilium, a well-known German eVTOL manufacturer, uses 30 turbine fan jet engines in its design, rather than multiple propeller-driven rotary engines. CEO Klaus Roewe noted that having 30 engines enhances safety and makes the aircraft quieter and more comfortable than commercial helicopters.
Lilium Jet, featuring 30 turbine fan jet engines seamlessly integrated into its sleek design.
Just a week before the airshow, Lilium secured its largest deal to date, with Saudi Arabian Airlines agreeing to purchase up to 100 air taxis. The company also signed an agreement with Saudi certification authorities.
Spain’s Crisalion also landed an order. On July 25, Dubai helicopter service operator Air Chateau announced it had ordered 10 eVTOLs from Crisalion to support the development of air taxi services in the UAE. In less than a year, Air Chateau has placed ten orders with Crisalion, totaling 125 air taxis.
Crisalion COO Oscar Lara stated, “Dubai is one of our core markets, and we aim to expand our presence in the region.”
Vertical Aerospace VX4 prototype
UK-based Vertical Aerospace showcased its VX4 prototype, which is currently undergoing testing at its facility. Chief Strategy and Technology Officer Michael Cervenka expressed excitement about using the prototype for unmanned flights, positioning the company among the few eVTOL manufacturers to achieve this milestone.
Boeing’s Wisk displayed its full-scale prototype, designed for unmanned, fully autonomous flight. CEO Brian Yutko mentioned that the company is testing its air taxi and hopes to fly it by the end of the year.
Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer announced that its Eve model is expected to undergo testing and certification by the end of next year. However, CEO Johann Bordais acknowledged the challenges, stating, “This is no small feat. We are pushing the limits of technology and aviation, and this moment is crucial.”
Current Challenges
While ideas and designs for eVTOLs abound, safety certification remains the most critical step for manufacturers. Convincing global aviation authorities of the safety and stability of these aircraft is a significant hurdle.
Manufacturers argue that eVTOLs are more efficient and have lower maintenance costs than helicopters, and they are expected to replace helicopters in urban areas over the coming decades. However, given helicopters’ greater range, better hovering capabilities, and higher payload capacity, it may be too soon to bid them farewell.
Passenger cost is another key concern for eVTOL manufacturers. Due to early market supply challenges, it may take some time before air taxis become as affordable and convenient as Uber rides.
Vertical Aerospace’s Cervenka noted, “We don’t need a lot of fancy new technology now. This aircraft is expected to achieve costs similar to renting an Uber.”
Lilium’s Roewe added that once the market is fully established, prices must come down. “Our goal is 2 euros per passenger kilometer, a value proposition that many can afford and are willing to pay.”
The landscape of the eVTOL industry may look very different at the next Farnborough Airshow in two years.
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