Lilium Takes Off: eVTOL Aircraft Powers Up for First Flight

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Munich, Germany (October 1, 2024) – Lilium N.V. (NASDAQ: LILM), a leading electric aircraft manufacturer and pioneer in Regional Air Mobility (RAM), has achieved a significant milestone towards revolutionizing air travel. The company successfully completed the first systems power-on test of its revolutionary all-electric Lilium Jet.

Lilium Jet Powers Up: A Major Step Towards Electric Flight

This successful power-on procedure on the first in-production Lilium Jet (MSN 1) signifies a critical step on the path to achieving first flight and eventual certification. The test confirms that the aircraft’s construction aligns with Lilium’s design and its flight systems function correctly.

During the power-on test, high-voltage electricity (900 volts) was applied to the aircraft, converting it to power the low-voltage electrical and avionics systems. These crucial systems include the cockpit display, flight controls, communication, navigation, and surveillance functionalities. This milestone mirrors the customary power-on acceptance test conducted in conventional commercial aircraft manufacturing.

Lilium’s Commitment to Safety and Repeatability

“Power-on is, like, super important for any commercial airplane that’s being made,” said Stephen Vellacott, who’s the big cheese of tech at Lilium. “The two Lilium Jets we’re putting together right now, and the ones after them, are all gonna be top-notch, made just how we designed them. We’re totally sticking to the rules and doing everything by the book, you know, like in aviation class. Safety is like, the number one thing for airplane-making. It’s huge. So, getting to this point where we can turn on the power is like passing a big test. It shows we’re right on schedule and doing things the right way.”

The Path to Certification: Lab Testing and Piloted Flights

MSN 1 is destined to become Lilium’s “ironbird” – a fully functional aircraft used for ground testing within the certification program. This “ironbird” will play a vital role in proving the aircraft’s safety and compliance with airworthiness requirements. The second Lilium Jet (MSN 2) is also nearing completion and is slated to be the first aircraft flown with a pilot on board in early 2025. Production of the fuselage for MSN 3 is already underway at a supplier facility. Lilium plans to utilize a total of six test aircraft throughout the type-certification process, aiming for entry into service by 2026.

Building on Previous Success: Electrical Integration Testing

This power-on milestone follows another significant achievement for Lilium. In August 2024, the company successfully completed the first phase of electrical integration testing at their dedicated electrical power system lab (EPSL). This test rig replicates the Lilium Jet’s entire powertrain, from battery pack to engine, in a controlled environment outside the aircraft. Through the EPSL, Lilium has successfully tested numerous core electrical functionalities, including high voltage distribution, low voltage conversion and distribution, health reporting, and charging systems.

About Lilium

Lilium (NASDAQ: LILM) is on a mission to create a sustainable and accessible mode of high-speed, regional transportation for people and goods. Their innovative Lilium Jet, an all-electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, boasts industry-leading capacity, low noise emissions, and high performance with zero operating emissions. Lilium is accelerating the transition to a decarbonized future for air travel.

The company is collaborating with leading figures in aerospace, technology, and infrastructure. With announced sales and indications of interest spanning Europe, the United States, China, Brazil, the UK, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia, Lilium’s rapidly growing team boasts over 1,000 employees, including approximately 500 aerospace engineers and a leadership team with a proven track record in delivering successful aircraft programs. Founded in 2015, Lilium’s headquarters and manufacturing facilities are located in Munich, Germany, with teams strategically positioned across Europe and the U.S.

Source: lilium jet

The Lilium Jet is an exciting development in the field of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Here are some key details about the Lilium Pioneer Edition:

Key Features:

Capacity: The Lilium Jet can seat up to six passengers, making it a versatile option for both personal and business travel.
Customizable Amenities: The interior can be tailored to meet the specific needs and preferences of its passengers, offering a luxurious and personalized flying experience.
Electric Propulsion: It uses 30 battery-electric motors, which are integrated into the main wings and canards’ flaps. These motors are the only moving exterior parts, enhancing aerodynamics and efficiency.
Quiet Operation: The jet’s design includes ducted fan technology, which significantly reduces noise emissions, ensuring a quieter experience for both passengers and surrounding communities ¹.
Sustainability: The Lilium Jet aims to decarbonize aviation by offering zero operating emissions, contributing to a greener future.

Launch and Certification:

Design and Integration:

It represents a significant step forward in the evolution of air mobility, blending cutting-edge technology with sustainability and luxury. Are you interested in any specific aspect of the Lilium Jet, such as its technical specifications or potential use cases?

Lilium Takes Flight in the US: Debuting the Jet in Houston

Beyond the power-on milestone, Lilium recently made significant progress in the US market. On September 26, 2024, they debuted the Lilium Jet at Houston Hobby Airport, marking the aircraft’s first appearance in the United States. The Lilium Jet is designed and optimized for regional travel, offering an anticipated initial operating range of roughly 110 miles. This range makes it ideal for connecting key locations within the Houston area, such as Houston Hobby Airport to Galveston and Houston Spaceport to College Station.