Vertical Aerospace will receive a US$37 million investment from the UK Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) program aimed at developing clean energy solutions for the aerospace industry.
With the investment, the British manufacturer of eVTOLs will dedicate itself to developing a prototype propulsion battery system for aerospace applications, including as part its own aircraft, the VX4.
In September 2022, Vertical announced that it had selected E-One Moli Enegy for the supply of lithium battery cells to power its eVTOL. The investment does not alter this partnership.
The VX4 is an eVTOL with capacity for four passengers and one pilot and designed to reach 160 kilometers at a speed of up to 320 km/h. The aircraft’s first flight took place in September 2022.
“We are absolutely delighted to co-invest with the government in developing the lightweight, high-performance, and safe batteries we need to make zero carbon flight a reality. In the race to Net Zero, the ATI Programme is delivering a huge opportunity for the government and industry to come together to create world-leading, British technologies and build British expertise.”
Stephen Fitzpatrick, CEO of Vertical Aerospace.
In addition to Vertical, Rolls-Royce will receive US$99.4 million from ATI to develop liquid hydrogen fuel. Rolls-Royce has been Vertical’s partner since 2021 in the development of the electric propulsion system.