Electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft are expected to revolutionize urban air mobility and create new opportunities for transportation and tourism. These aircraft are also coming on strong in the commercial sector.
A German aerospace company, Lilium, in partnership with EMCJET, a full-service aircraft brokerage and management company, has opened private sales of its eVTOL jets in the U.S. market. EMCJET is set to be the exclusive Lilium dealer in Texas through 2030 for private sales.
As part of the partnership, which includes a commercial commitment to Lilium for five production slots, EMCJET will enable individuals to purchase some of the first Lilium Pioneer Edition Jets available in the U.S. market.
This announcement marks the beginning of Lilium’s entry into the U.S. private aviation market and follows Lilium’s commercial strategy to start with the premium market before expanding to the airline and passenger shuttle market.
The Lilium Jet will be available countrywide, with the initial focus on key cities in Texas, including Austin, Houston, San Antonio, and Dallas, aligning with Texas’ commitment to sustainability, delivering efficient and eco-friendly transportation choices for residents and visitors.
The Lilium Pioneer Edition Jet is Lilium’s planned first edition version of the Lilium Jet being sold to private buyers around the world. The Lilium Jet is an all-electric vertical takeoff and landing jet designed to provide high capacity, low noise, and high performance with zero operating emissions for regional connectivity. The $10-million Lilium Pioneer Edition is expected to launch following certification by the end of 2025.
“Dealers and aircraft management companies are eager to partner with Lilium on jet sales to help decarbonize general aviation and provide an elevated flying experience, all while being incredibly efficient to operate,” said Sebastien Borel, Chief Commercial Officer at Lilium.
In addition to Lilium, there are many other companies working towards the commercialization of eVTOL aircraft. A US-based Joby Aviation is working with the FAA to certify its eVTOL for commercial air-taxi service by 2025. Earlier this year, Tokyo-based SkyDrive and Suzuki Motor announced a partnership for the commercialization of flying cars by 2025. Austria-based CycloTech, earlier this month, unveiled its first CycloRotor-powered aircar that uses a series of small ducted fans for both vertical and horizontal propulsion.
