Lilium has successfully completed the first phase of integration testing for the Lilium Jet's electrical power system at its custom-built laboratory. This achievement marks a significant milestone on the path towards flight conditions approval and type-certification of the Lilium Jet. As the first two Lilium Jets progress on the production line, engineers are already verifying the design of the aircraft's core powertrain functionalities, which are crucial for certification in accordance with EASA's SC-VTOL regulations.
The new electrical power system laboratory is located at Lilium's headquarters, within the company's test campus on the outskirts of Munich. The lab replicates the Lilium Jet powertrain within a controlled test environment, integrating low-voltage systems that power the aircraft's avionics and cabin systems, onboard energy isolation units to prevent hazardous energy release and a fully operational charging station.
Using bespoke software, Lilium engineers can simulate flight profiles, conduct tests, and collect data in real time. This data will be utilised to provide evidence to airworthiness authorities, demonstrating the aircraft's safety and compliance with type-certification requirements.
The lab, which also offers a secure environment for fault injection and system robustness testing, was developed and constructed in collaboration with Italian supplier EN4, a specialist in advanced testing solutions for aerospace, automotive, railway, and industrial applications. Lilium and EN4 have extensively employed cutting-edge software and hardware from NI, formerly National Instruments, in the testing environment.
Stephen Vellacott, Lilium's Chief Technology Officer, stated: “With the completion of the first phase of electrical power integration and verification testing at our dedicated lab, we have reached yet another critical milestone in the development of the Lilium Jet. In this new lab, we test flights, charging, and simulate failure scenarios to ensure our powertrain meets stringent aviation safety and reliability standards. From first flight to certification and product launch, the lab allows us to demonstrate that our aircraft will be a world-leading product.”
Simultaneously, Lilium continues to make progress with the production of the first Lilium Jets, which will be integral to the Lilium Jet type-certification programme. The first Lilium Jet will be dedicated to ground testing, while the second will be utilised for the inaugural manned flight.
Since its inception in 2015, Lilium has developed multiple generations of technology demonstrators, refining the core technology subsystems for the Lilium Jet. Since 2022, two of Lilium's Phoenix test aircraft, a full-scale five-seater design reflecting the flight physics and technology of the Lilium Jet, have undergone extensive flight testing in Spain, including successful transitions from vertical to horizontal flight and achieving a cruise speed of 136 knots (250 kilometres per hour).
