Jet Project Sees Advances from Big Names in Automotive, Aviation Engineering

Lilium has announced the co-development of a new electric motor for the upcoming Lilium Jet, working with Honeywell and large automotive OEM Denso. 

Honeywell has a hand in developing the Jet's avionics, flight control systems, and electrics already, making them the go-to for the creation of a better propulsion system. Their previously existing relationship with automotive giant Denso will help to move things along as the trio of companies leverage their expertise to create a suitable aerospace propulsion motor, using Honeywell's engineering prowess and Denso's skillful mass production. 

The Lilium e-motor, as it's currently called, is a proprietary, high-performance system, giving Lilium a solid combination of thrust and energy conservation for battery powered aircraft. In aeronautical use, the e-motor will sport an air-cooled, "radial" design, lightening the system and minimizing exposure to foreign object damage. So far, the motor has achieved over 100kW of power from a system weighing just a tad over 4 kilos. 

Lilium COO Yves Yemsi said the match was a perfect one. “Lilium’s Procurement strategy is to engage with the technology providers with the most suitable expertise. We are already making great progress with Honeywell on its Honeywell Anthem integrated flight deck and flight control computers, and we are delighted to deepen our relationship by also partnering with Honeywell and DENSO on our e-motor. The collaboration with these two powerhouses takes us further along the path to revolutionizing regional air mobility.”

“Honeywell has been at the forefront of innovation in aviation for a century, and we are proud to closely collaborate with Denso and help usher in the age of electric flight" said Stéphane Fymat, vice president of urban air mobility at Honeywell Aerospace. "Lilium’s innovation, combined with our experience in aerospace, will help to bring about cleaner, more sustainable ways for people to travel for centuries to come.”

Koji Ishizuka, senior director at Denso, said the project is right up their alley. “Denso’s focus is powering the shift to a green, safe and seamless mobility future for all. We’re grateful to work with Honeywell and Lilium on making air travel cleaner and more efficient, and in doing so, we have the opportunity to apply our electrification expertise to vehicles on land and in the sky.”

FMI: www.lilium.com