Archer and Hexcel Partner: Ramping Up eVTOL Manufacturing

Archer and Hexcel Partner on eVTOL Manufacturing

by DRONELIFE Staff Writer Ian M. Crosby

Today Archer Aviation Inc. announced that it has entered into a joint letter of intent with lightweight composite technology leader Hexcel. The letter details a proposed relationship between the two companies that would see Hexcel supply Archer with carbon fiber and resin systems known as prepreg, necessary to the production of composite parts for Archer’s production aircraft.

As a leading supplier of carbon fiber, honeycomb, and other composite materials for major programs ranging from aerospace, aviation, space, defense and industrial, Hexcel is the perfect composites partner, providing systems that offer both strength and durability. Hexcel components also cut down on energy consumption and the weight of the aircraft, allowing for higher performance and an increased flight range.

“When selecting a partner, our primary focus was on safety and quality. We were impressed by Hexcel’s track record in delivering high-performance prepreg materials for the commercial aerospace industry and their proactive approach to developing cutting-edge materials,” said Brett Adcock, Archer’s co-founder and co-CEO. “Hexcel’s deep aerospace experience and familiarity with FAA certification requirements will prove invaluable as Archer moves into its next phase of innovation and ushers in the future of sustainable transportation,” added Adam Goldstein, Archer co-founder and co-CEO.

“This is a terrific opportunity for Hexcel to join with an innovative leader such as Archer to bring eVTOL to market,” said Nick Stanage, Hexcel’s Chairman, CEO and President. “By selecting our leading lightweight composites, Archer helps improve aerodynamics, safety and quality in their aircraft designs. We are excited to be part of helping them succeed in bringing this new technology to market.”

Read more about Archer and the eVTOL market:

• Archer eVTOL Gets FAA Special Airworthiness Certificate: Check Out These Images!
• Publicly Traded Advanced Air Mobility Companies: Lilium, Archer Join Joby, Ehang
• Urban Air Mobility Market: $9 Billion by 2030?

Ian attended Dominican University of California, where he received a BA in English in 2019. With a lifelong passion for writing and storytelling and a keen interest in technology, he is now contributing to DroneLife as a staff writer.