Germany-based eVTOL developer Lilium and Livent will collaborate on the advancement of lithium metal technology for use in high-performance battery cells. Livent is a pioneer in lithium technology innovation and a global leader in lithium production for nearly 80 years, and this is an important step towards securing Lilium's future access to the high-performance battery cell technology that will power its jets.

Livent supplies lithium to many of the world's premier electric vehicle brands and battery makers. As a fully integrated lithium producer, the company uses its differentiated technology processes to both source raw lithium and manufacture a range of specialty lithium products in an environmentally responsible, safe and sustainable manner.

Lilium COO Yves Yemsi says: “This collaboration is a milestone in Lilium's commitment to revolutionise regional air travel. Innovation is at the heart of our mission, and to keep innovating we need to collaborate with the best in the industry. Livent's unique expertise in lithium production, as well as its commitment to sustainably responsible practices, makes it an ideal partner.”

Livent director of research and development and new business development Marina Yakovleva adds: “The Livent R&D team is excited about the opportunity to work closely with the leading scientists and engineers at Lilium to advance the state of the art in e-mobility and battery technology. Innovation is in the DNA of both companies, as is a shared commitment to advancing electric transportation and sustainability solutions. Together, we hope to drive meaningful progress in realising the potential of next generation battery technologies and decarbonising air travel.”

The propulsion mounting system or 'flap', the structure that forms the rear part of the wings and front aerofoils, is one of the Lilium Jet's major components, producing lift by interacting with airflow from the engine. It also houses the propulsion and vectoring systems responsible for vertical and horizontal flight.

Electric jet engines integrated into the wing flaps provide advantages in payload, aerodynamic efficiency and a lower noise profile, while also providing thrust vector control to manoeuvre the Lilium Jet through every phase of flight.

Aernnova and Lilium will work together on the design, manufacture and supply of the Lilium Jet's flap structure.

Aernnova is one of the largest tier 1 aerospace suppliers, providing aerostructure for companies such as Airbus, Boeing and Embraer.

The Lilium Jet's propulsion mounting system will feature a complex and unique design. The integrated system will serve multiple functions and be modular and scalable. It will utilise lightweight material such as carbon fibre-reinforced epoxy.

Yemsi says: “Aernnova is an industry leader for customised design and manufacture of metallic and composite assemblies, which makes it an ideal partner. It is important to us that we collaborate with the best aerospace suppliers and leverage their expertise.”

Aernnova CEO Ricardo Chocarro adds: “With 28 years of expertise in developing and creating aircraft structures, we are proud to be contributing to a project as exciting and unique as the Lilium Jet. This all-electric jet has the potential to change the aviation industry in a positive, sustainable way, and we are delighted to be a key partner.”