Kathmandu: In a groundbreaking move, Archer Aviation Inc. (NYSE: ACHR), a frontrunner in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, has formalized a Space Act Agreement with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). This collaboration marks the initiation of a pivotal project focused on the examination of high-performance battery cells and safety testing, with a strategic focus on Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and space applications.
Archer recognizes the evolving landscape of electric vehicles in the U.S. and globally, highlighting the nascent state of the electric aircraft supply chain. The testing initiative is poised to propel progress in this arena. NASA aims to rigorously test Archer’s battery cell and system design, sharing crucial insights to advance the entire AAM industry. The maturation of battery technology is identified as a linchpin for widespread adoption in electric aviation.
Archer's commitment extends to delivering a high-performing battery pack with superior safety features for its Midnight electric air taxi. This move aims to validate the suitability of these cells for aerospace applications, including electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL), electric conventional takeoff and landing (eCTOL) aircraft, and potential space usage.
Adam Goldstein, Archer’s Founder and CEO, expressed pride in partnering with NASA, a pioneer in the eVTOL industry, to ensure sustained U.S. leadership in aerospace. The collaboration underscores the urgency for government and industry cooperation to pioneer the next era of aviation technology, a development poised to benefit all Americans.
As part of their joint efforts, NASA and Archer will intensively test the safety, energy, and power performance of battery cells. Testing will leverage cutting-edge facilities, including the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF), utilizing high-speed X-ray capabilities to understand cell behavior under extreme conditions. Archer's choice of cylindrical cells with a proven track record in safety and scalability reinforces their commitment to innovation.
The collaboration aligns with the promise of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) to provide significant public benefits, transforming urban and rural mobility, enhancing cargo and logistics options, and creating avenues for employment and economic opportunities. At its core, unlocking this potential hinges on purpose-built batteries and electric motors designed, developed, and mass-produced for electric aircraft. Source
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