Flying Taxi Company Teams With NASA for Batteries

An eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) company has agreed to work with NASA to study high-performance battery cells and safety testing aimed at advanced air mobility (AAM) uses and space applications.

Archer Aviation and NASA signed a Space Act Agreement, with NASA planning to test Archer’s battery cell and system design and share the results to advance the AAM market.

For its part, Archer is planning a high-performing battery pack for its Midnight eVTOL air taxi validating that the cells are suitable for aerospace applications and potential usage in space.

“We’re extremely proud to partner with NASA, who has pioneered the eVTOL industry over the last 3-plus decades, in support of our collective mission to ensure U.S. leadership in aerospace continues for decades to come,” said Adam Goldstein, Archer founder and CEO. “Many countries around the world are challenging the U.S. in this new era of flight and our country is at risk of losing its global leadership position unless we work together, government and industry, to ensure we seize the moment and pioneer this new era of aviation technology, which stands to benefit all Americans.”

As part of the deal, Archer and NASA plan to focus on further testing the safety, energy and power performance capabilities of the battery cells. 

Related:Flying Taxi Deal Signed; $500M for 100 Flying Vehicles for UAE

Archer is beginning mass manufacturing of its electric air taxi.

Archer recently signed a deal with Air Chateau International for the private aviation operator to purchase the electric aerial vehicles (EAV) to be operated in the United Arab Emirates.

That deal calls for a non-refundable deposit of $1 million with the investment group Acorn Capital as the financial transaction partner.

The Air Chateau operations provide last-mile services between airports and cities for high-net-worth individuals.

Archer and Air Chateau also plan to explore opportunities around infrastructure investment necessary for regional cities to prepare for operations.

Archer previously outlined its intent to build an engineering center of excellence to support the growing advanced air mobility industry in the UAE and across the Middle East.

Archer recently announced plans to start air taxi operations in Abu Dhabi and Dubai in 2026.

Archer is not alone in expanding its global operation.

EAV jet maker Lilium recently announced that ArcosJet DMCC is going to purchase 10 of its electric jets and become the exclusive dealer for its private jets in the region.