Stellantis and Archer Aviation have announced an expanded partnership to manufacture Archer’s electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, Midnight.
The manufacturers say the Midnight aircraft has been designed to provide “safe”, “sustainable” and “quiet” transportation for up to four passengers and a pilot. It has a range of 100 miles, but is optimised for back-to-back short distance trips of around 20 miles, with a charging time of around 10 minutes between each trip.
Automotive manufacturer, Stellantis has worked with Archer since 2020 and has been an investor since 2021. Under the latest agreement, Stellantis will now work with Archer to manufacture the Midnight aircraft at Archer’s facility in Covington, Georgia from 2024.
Carlos Tavares, Stellantis CEO said:We’ve been working closely with Archer for the past two years, and I am continually impressed by their ingenuity and unwavering commitment to deliver. Deepening our partnership with Archer as a strategic investor with plans for growing our shareholding demonstrates how Stellantis is pushing the boundaries to provide sustainable freedom of mobility, from the road to the sky. Supporting Archer with our manufacturing expertise is another example of how Stellantis will lead the way the world moves.
This partnership aims to bring the Midnight aircraft to market and rapidly scale production to meet Archer’s commercialisation plans.
Ultimately, the companies envision that Stellantis will mass produce Archer’s eVTOL aircraft as an exclusive contract manufacturer.
Adam Goldstein, Founder and CEO of Archer said:Stellantis’ continued recognition of Archer’s progress toward commercialisation, and today’s commitment of significant resources to build the Midnight aircraft with us, places Archer in a strong position to be first to market. Our two companies are taking these important steps together to realise a once-in-a-generation opportunity to redefine urban transportation.
