23 October 2022 || 3 min read

Archer has announced its next generation of eVTOL prototypes and the first candidate for production, Midnight. Following on the success and lessons learned from Maker, Midnight is the company’s first production eVTOL prototype and will be unveiled at an open house event on November 16.

Archer’s developmental prototype, Maker, conducts a hover test earlier this year.

Earlier this year Midnight successfully completed its preliminary design review (PDR) and has been selected to move forward into production. The upgraded model is expected to have a useful payload of 1,000+ pounds to support 4 passengers and 1 pilot. The company has stated it is targeting a lightning fast 10 minute charging turnaround time to keep its aircraft in the air longer.

“From day one, Archer’s goal has been to build a commercially viable business that will revolutionize intra-city travel. We’ve made phenomenal progress in the development of our eVTOL aircraft technology and I am excited to share the aircraft that will deliver on that vision as part of our Open House event” said Adam Goldstein, Archer’s CEO.

Partners participating in the event will include United Airlines, as well as global automotive manufacturer, Stellantis. Stellantis has been working with Archer since early in their eVTOL aircraft’s development, and are a key partner in Archer’s plans to achieve manufacturing at scale for its aircraft.

“Collaboration has always been a cornerstone of our mission,” said Tom Muniz, Archer’s Chief Operating Officer. “Delivering a safe, sustainable revolution in air travel will take our collective vision and expertise, and I can’t wait to stand alongside the Archer team next month to share how together we are bringing our long-term plans to life.”

Why it’s important: Like many other eVTOL makers, Archer has taken lessons learned from early developmental flight tests and iterated its design into a more mature production candidate. At the November open house event, we expect to find out more about Midnight’s technical and mission capabilities as well as the company’s progress towards certification.

Source: Archer Press Release

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