(TotalConservative.com) – The government of Saudi Arabia has placed an order for 100 electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) flying craft from German manufacturer Lilium. The company brands itself as producers of air taxis and boasts amazing new technology and a new style of personal flying vehicle that could revolutionize short-ranged trips around major urban centers. They have a maximum range of around 180 miles and will run completely on electricity.
The company is advertising a July 18 event at its headquarters in Munich in which the deal will be finalized and also boast an additional 780 orders for its flying taxi when they’re ready to be sold commercially.
The Saudi order comes from state-owned airline Saudia according to corporate press and is already agreed upon.
Flying personal transportation has been the stuff of science fiction, but may very well become a reality in the next decade or so. The Lilium craft was designed after years of venture capitalists dumping billions into various firms claiming to be able to accomplish the feat. It uses multiple small propellers and electric motors to generate thrust and motion during flight.
Lilium also announced support from German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on its X timeline on June 6.
The craft are still in development with the first manned flight set to occur sometime in the fall. It’s also using advanced deposits from buyers to fund its ongoing development of the craft.
Lilium has also made deals with other companies around the globe, but the Saudi Arabian order is the largest single purchase by any one client.
Miami-based UrbanLink purchased 20 of the craft with the intention of operating them in and around South Florida. His company is the only airline in the area to attempt to incorporate eVTOLs into its fleet. CEO Ed Wegel has 40 years of experience in the industry and compared multiple companies before deciding on Lilium as the best potential option.
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