ABB E-mobility has announced plans to provide the charging infrastructure for Lilium’s electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) air taxi network – scheduled for commercial launch in 2024.
ABB will develop, test, and supply the MegaWatt Charging System (MCS) to deliver the rapid turnaround times required for electric passenger aviation.
The MCS is capable of fully charging a Lilium seven-seater jet in approximately 30 minutes, enabling the 20-25 flights per air taxi per day planned across the company’s vertiport network.
The initial range of each jet is expected to be 155 miles, with a cruise speed of 175mph.
Frank Muehlon, president of ABB’s E-mobility Division, said: “Combining Lilium’s mission to grow sustainable aviation with ABB’s global market expertise and leadership in e-mobility and charging infrastructure is a win for the environment and a win for passengers.
“Moreover, we see this planned partnership as an important commitment to all relevant charging standards that are adopted by multiple electric ‘vehicle’ manufacturers.
“By supporting the new MegaWatt charging standard, ABB E-mobility is paving the way for the electrification of all modes of transport, from cars and trucks to marine vessels, mining vehicles, and now, aviation.”
Daniel Wiegand, CEO and co-founder of Lilium, added: “We believe that the decarbonization of aviation is both urgent and inevitable.
“Making sure we have the right charging infrastructure will play a crucial role in enabling our high-speed regional air network by allowing quick and efficient charging.
“We are proud to be working with ABB, who bring decades of experience in electrification and software, to set the charging industry standard for electric aviation.”
Image: CGI projection of Lilium eVTOL air taxis. Credit: Lilium
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