German eVTOL manufacturer Lilium has entered a sales agreement with executive eVTOL operator The Ambitious Group while navigating a financial restructuring process led by KPMG.
The Ambitious Group has committed to purchasing eight Lilium Jets, with options for six more, as part of its plan to introduce electric air charter services in regions such as Southern Spain, Morocco, and the Benelux. A second phase will see operations expanded to the Caribbean’s ABC Islands.
Robert J. Kamp, CEO of The Ambitious Group, expressed confidence in Lilium’s technology, telling Zag Daily:
“The outstanding product/vehicle is not a discussion, only finance, therefore we made the decision to move forward with the Lilium orders (4 projects in EU). We were well informed about possible delays and uncertainties. With our inside information about Lilium’s financial restructuring we decided to move forward with outstanding opportunities for us for the future.”
Kamp added that the Lilium Jet’s short range of 175kms makes it “ideally suited” for the city-to-city transfers that are essential to The Ambitious Group’s projects, including routes aimed at alleviating urban congestion.
Navigating financial headwinds
Lilium has reported progress in its testing programme, including the successful completion of a nose landing gear drop test and advancements in propulsion technology. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has also confirmed the company’s ongoing compliance with regulatory standards, providing a vote of confidence as Lilium prepares for the first manned flight of its all-electric jet.
These developments come against the backdrop of Lilium’s insolvency proceedings and ongoing M&A process, aimed at securing the funding necessary to continue development and achieve certification by 2026.
While some partners, such as ASL Group, have cancelled reservations for the Lilium Jet, others remain steadfast in their support.
Despite the financial turbulence, Lilium’s order book includes 108 firm commitments and nearly 600 aircraft under non-binding MOUs.
