The dream of vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft is taking a leap closer to reality with the development of a new generation that can seamlessly transition between hover mode and forward flight.
Unlike traditional airplanes requiring lengthy runways, VTOLs can take off and land vertically like helicopters, offering greater flexibility for urban transportation and military operations.
The key to their operation lies in transition flight the ability to smoothly switch between helicopter mode, achieved with rotors positioned horizontally for vertical lift, and airplane mode, where the rotors tilt vertically for forward flight.
While transitioning between these configurations presents a significant engineering hurdle, some companies are at the forefront of achieving this complex maneuver. With aspirations to revolutionize urban transportation, the Archer Midnight eVTOL stands out as a serious contender in the race for viable electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles.
A critical factor in its potential success is the backing of Stellantis, a powerhouse in the car industry that owns iconic brands like Dodge, Jeep, and Chrysler. This partnership, which began in 2020 with an investment from Stellantis, has grown into a strategic collaboration.
Stellantis will not only be a major investor but also leverage its extensive manufacturing expertise to produce the Midnight at Archer’s new facility in Georgia. The Midnight itself has achieved a significant milestone with its successful transition flight on June 8th.
This test demonstrated its ability to seamlessly switch between vertical and horizontal flight at a commendable speed of 100 mph. However, the spacious design, offering comfortable seating for four passengers, comes at the cost of a heavier weight tipping the scales at 6,500 pounds, the Midnight is on the larger side of the eVTOL spectrum.
In a sign of growing confidence in the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) market, Stellantis has bolstered its commitment to Archer Aviation with a fresh $55 million investment.
This latest infusion follows Archer’s successful completion of a critical transition flight test, a major step towards realizing its eVTOL aircraft. The additional funding comes on top of Stellantis’ previous support for Archer, totaling $110 million throughout 2023.
With this facility nearing completion and slated to be operational later this year, the additional capital from Stellantis will likely be instrumental in ramping up production capacity for Archer’s eVTOL vehicles.
Archer isn’t taking a wait-and-see approach their confidence is evident in plans for a colossal assembly facility capable of producing a staggering 650 Midnight units per year.
This piloted craft boasts impressive maneuverability thanks to 12 electric motors powered by six separate battery packs. With a maximum speed of 150 mph, the Midnight can whisk passengers to their destinations quickly.
While its range is limited to 100 miles, this is perfectly suited for short-distance urban hops. The short charging time of around ten minutes between flights ensures the Midnight can stay operational for most of the day, efficiently transporting passengers and maximizing profitability for its operator.
Archer Aviation’s Midnight eVTOL has garnered interest beyond civilian air taxis. The military has invested a hefty $142 million, the largest ever for an eVTOL company, to incorporate Midnights into their fleet.
While the FAA has already granted the basic airworthiness green light, the Midnight is still undergoing extensive testing. Upcoming months will see the craft progress through a series of piloted flight tests and simulations, with increasing complexity.
