Bristol-based pioneer of electric aviation Vertical Aerospace will adopt the combined charging standard (CCS) for its VX4 eVTOL aircraft, joining Beta Technologies and Archer Aviation in driving a universal fast-charging system for eVTOL aircraft. The development marks a significant step towards a global, industry-wide charging infrastructure, promising seamless integration for OEMs, operators and infrastructure providers, while reducing costs and accelerating eVTOL deployment.

The CCS fast-charging standard will enable Vertical’s VX4 to achieve fast turnaround times, including rapid battery charging and conditioning for shuttle operations. Vertical’s adoption of CCS will bring immediate interoperability with all CCS chargers of the standard, including Beta’s growing network, aligning with GAMA’s 2023 call for standardised charging systems.

Vertical CEO Stuart Simpson comments: “Vertical, together with Beta and Archer, choosing this standard means the industry has decided. Standardising charging infrastructure is a crucial step in making electric aviation commercially viable. By adopting the CCS, we’re ensuring that VX4 can integrate seamlessly into a shared charging network, which reinforces our commitment to delivering a scalable eVTOL ecosystem.”

Chip Palombini, Beta’s charge production lead, adds: “The true unlock of the next generation of aviation won’t come just from novel aircraft; it’s about a robust interoperable charging infrastructure that can support all manufacturers. We are building a foundation that will allow eVTOLs to operate and scale safely, reliably and efficiently across the globe, and Vertical Aerospace shares that vision.”

Vertical’s VX4 is a piloted, four-passenger eVTOL aircraft, with zero operating emissions, and the company reports approximately 1,500 pre-orders from customers including American Airlines, Japan Airlines, GOL and Bristow.