Tech Desk 
Jul 18, 2024
Lilium, a German electric aviation, company says it struck a binding agreement with the Saudia Group for 100 of its electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOL).
The Saudia Group is the owner of the largest airline carrier in the country and is wholly owned by the state.
The deal is a "firm order" for 50 of Lilium’s jets and a promise for 50 more. It follows a 2022 memorandum of understanding between Lilium and Saudia to explore ways in which battery-powered multi-rotor aircraft can address the region’s transportation challenges.
The deal hasn’t been discussed, yet it's believed it’ll go in the hundreds and millions. The company already offers US consumers its Pioneer aircraft as an eco-friendly alternative to their private jets.
read more: NASA cancels Moon rover mission VIPER due to budget constraints
Lilium is one of a few companies that want to replace noisy, polluting helicopters and regional aircraft with all-electric, multi-rotor vehicles designed for short hops between nearby airports or quick trips from a dense, urban core to a local airport.
Lilium’s jet sports an egg-shaped volley, and two wings, one fore and the other aft. The wings are equipped with 50 batter-electric motors, they can tilt downward for vertical takeoff and be flush for forward flight.
Lilium isn’t the odd one out, China’s Ehang has also been testing its vehicles in Mecca for a potential taxi service. A couple of others, Eve and Joby have also inked similar agreements with Saudi Aviation companies for future sales.
