California-based Urban Air Mobility (UAM) firm, Archer, has unveiled a full scale prototype demonstrator of its ‘Maker’ autonomous air vehicle. Paolo Alto-based Archer plans to advance the benefits of sustainable air mobility with the aim of moving people throughout the world’s cities in a quick, safe, sustainable, and cost-effective manner.
The fully autonomous electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing Aircraft (eVTOL) can seat two passengers and travel distances of 100 km at speeds of up to 250 kmph.
Archer will use the Maker demonstrator for engineering, certification and development tasks.
An eVTOL aircraft can take-off vertically like a helicopter and then transition to level flight like an aeroplane, while their electric powerplants deliver very low noise levels.
The commercial launch of the firm’s first high-volume, composite eVTOL aircraft is slated for 2024.
“Maker’s unveil has been years in the making and marks a pivotal juncture for the eVTOL industry and future of transportation. Every day at Archer, we’re working to build the future, and we have never felt closer than we did introducing the world to Maker,” said Brett Adcock, Co-Founder and Co-CEO, Archer.
Deal with FCA
Interestingly, Archer has entered into a definitive agreement with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) in January this year, giving it access to the automotive conglomerate’s low-cost supply chain, advanced composite material capabilities, and engineering and design experience. FCA is the parent company of established automobile brands including Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram.
This is the first deal in which Detroit’s ‘Big Three’ auto makers have stepped into the UAM space.
In the same month, United Airlines had also announced its intention to invest in Archer. The American carrier has placed aircraft orders worth $ 1 billion with options for an additional $ 500 million of aircraft, subject to Archer meeting United’s business and operating requirements.
United initially plans to launch trips between Hollywood and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) using one of Archer’s eVTOL aircraft, which could potentially reduce CO2 emissions by up to 50% per passenger.
Archer is also working on developing UAM networks for city travellers in Los Angeles and Miami with consumer flights slated for 2024.