Archer Aviation has acquired Lilium GmbH’s portfolio of roughly 300 advanced air mobility patents for €18 million, strengthening its position in next-generation electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology.
The purchased patents cover innovations in ducted fans, propeller systems, high-voltage systems, battery management, flight controls, electric engines, and aircraft design. The acquisition adds to Archer’s existing patent holdings, bringing the company’s total to more than 1,000 worldwide.
See also: Archer Aviation Joins U.S. Electric Air Taxi Pilot Program
Adam Goldstein, Archer’s founder and CEO, said the acquisition would accelerate the company’s product development. “Lilium’s pioneering work advanced the frontier of eVTOL design and technology, and we’re excited to bring their cutting-edge technologies into the fold at Archer as we advance our product roadmap,” he said.
Lilium, founded in 2015, spent over $1.5 billion developing its eVTOL platform, widely regarded as technologically advanced, particularly in ducted fan technology. Archer said the acquisition would enhance its current platforms and support future development across both light-sport and regional air mobility sectors.
See also: Archer Aviation Reports Longest Piloted eVTOL Flight to Date
The move comes amid consolidation in the advanced air mobility industry, following recent acquisitions such as Volocopter by a Chinese company. In July 2025, the U.S. Department of Transportation and Federal Aviation Administration finalized the modernization of special airworthiness certification (MOSAIC) rules, aimed at driving innovation in the light-sport sector. Archer said Lilium’s technologies could help unlock new opportunities under these updated regulations.
