Archer Aviation Inc., a leading developer of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, today announced the acquisition of Lilium GmbH’s advanced air mobility patent portfolio, consisting of approximately 300 patent assets across key areas of eVTOL innovation. The €18 million transaction positions Archer as the holder of one of the largest and most comprehensive eVTOL patent portfolios in the world, now totaling over 1,000 patents globally.
The acquired portfolio includes pioneering technologies in ducted fans, propeller systems, high-voltage systems, battery management, aircraft design, flight controls, and electric engines, areas that form the foundation of next-generation electric aviation.
“Lilium’s pioneering work advanced the frontier of eVTOL design and technology, and we’re excited to bring their cutting-edge innovations into the fold at Archer as we advance our product roadmap,” said Adam Goldstein, Founder and CEO of Archer. “This acquisition further reinforces our mission to ensure the United States leads the world in critical eVTOL technologies.”
Founded in 2015, Lilium invested more than $1.5 billion in developing its visionary eVTOL platform, which was widely regarded as technologically ahead of its time. The acquisition gives Archer access to what is believed to be the most advanced ducted fan patent portfolio globally — a technology considered central to the future of efficient and quiet electric flight.
The move comes amid a wave of industry consolidation in the advanced air mobility (AAM) sector, including the recent acquisition of Volocopter by a Chinese buyer, as leading companies race to secure critical intellectual property and innovation pipelines.
Strategic Impact for U.S. eVTOL Leadership
With this acquisition, Archer not only expands its technology base but also strengthens its strategic advantage in the U.S. eVTOL landscape. The company believes Lilium’s ducted fan technology could play a key role in unlocking future advancements in both light-sport aviation and regional air mobility, particularly following the U.S. Department of Transportation and FAA’s recent MOSAIC final rule, which modernizes special airworthiness certification and accelerates innovation across the light-sport category.
By integrating Lilium’s advanced technologies, Archer aims to accelerate the development of safer, more efficient, and more sustainable electric aircraft, supporting its long-term vision of transforming urban and regional transportation through electric aviation.