In a significant development within the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) sector, Archer Aviation Inc., a leading U.S.-based eVTOL aircraft developer, has successfully acquired the extensive patent portfolio of the now-defunct German startup Lilium GmbH. This strategic acquisition, valued at €18 million (approximately $21 million), encompasses around 300 patents and marks a pivotal moment in the consolidation of advanced air mobility technologies.
Background on Lilium GmbH
Founded in 2015, Lilium was at the forefront of eVTOL innovation, investing over $1.5 billion in the development of its electric aircraft. The company’s flagship project, the Lilium Jet, was designed to be a seven-seat aircraft capable of regional air travel, utilizing 36 ducted electric fans for propulsion. Despite securing high-profile investors and customer orders, including a notable agreement for 100 electric jets from Saudi Arabia, Lilium faced insurmountable financial challenges. These difficulties culminated in the company’s insolvency filing in early 2025, leading to the sale of its assets through a competitive bidding process.
Details of the Acquisition
Archer Aviation emerged victorious in the bid for Lilium’s patent assets, outpacing competitors such as Joby Aviation and Ambitious Air Mobility Group. The acquired patents cover a broad spectrum of critical eVTOL technologies, including:
– High-voltage electrical systems
– Battery management solutions
– Advanced aircraft design methodologies
– Flight control systems
– Electric propulsion technologies
– Propeller and ducted fan innovations
This acquisition significantly bolsters Archer’s intellectual property portfolio, expanding it to over 1,000 global patent assets. The integration of Lilium’s pioneering technologies is expected to enhance Archer’s existing platforms and accelerate the development of next-generation eVTOL aircraft.
Strategic Implications for Archer Aviation
The incorporation of Lilium’s patents aligns with Archer’s strategic objectives to lead in the eVTOL market and ensure U.S. dominance in critical aviation technologies. Notably, Lilium’s advancements in ducted fan technology are anticipated to unlock new opportunities in both light-sport and regional air mobility sectors. This is particularly relevant following the U.S. Department of Transportation and Federal Aviation Administration’s modernization of the special airworthiness certification (MOSAIC) final rule in July 2025, which aims to drive innovation across the light-sport aviation sector.
Adam Goldstein, Founder and CEO of Archer, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, Lilium’s pioneering work advanced the frontier of eVTOL design and technology, and we’re excited to bring their cutting-edge technologies into the fold at Archer as we advance our product roadmap.
Industry Context and Future Outlook
The eVTOL industry is experiencing rapid growth, with numerous companies vying for technological supremacy and regulatory approvals. However, the sector also faces financial pressures, leading to increased consolidation. Lilium’s bankruptcy and subsequent asset sale underscore the challenges within the industry, including high development costs and the necessity for substantial investment to achieve commercialization.
Archer’s acquisition of Lilium’s patents not only strengthens its technological foundation but also positions the company favorably in the competitive landscape. By integrating Lilium’s innovations, Archer is poised to enhance its aircraft’s performance, safety, and efficiency, thereby accelerating the path to market entry.
Conclusion
Archer Aviation’s strategic acquisition of Lilium’s extensive patent portfolio represents a significant milestone in the eVTOL industry. By assimilating Lilium’s advanced technologies, Archer is set to reinforce its leadership position and drive innovation in electric aviation. This move not only honors Lilium’s legacy but also propels Archer closer to realizing the vision of sustainable and efficient air mobility solutions.
