Electric air taxis go to war

Archer Aviation, in collaboration with Anduril, has unveiled the Thunder, a hybrid vertical takeoff and landing aircraft. This new variant features a series hybrid powertrain, differing from Archer’s fully electric Midnight, to achieve longer range and optimize power for various flight conditions. The companies envision Thunder serving military purposes such as attack rotorcraft and commercial applications including cargo shipment and remote logistics.

• Archer Aviation and Anduril have co-developed a new hybrid vertical takeoff and landing aircraft named Thunder.
• The Thunder is designed for both military and commercial applications.
• It features a series hybrid powertrain, providing longer range compared to fully electric systems.
• Potential military uses include attack rotorcraft capabilities, while commercial uses involve cargo shipment and remote logistics.
• Air taxi companies are exploring hybrid power to expand beyond air taxi services and seeking military partnerships to offset financial losses.
  Continue reading https://www.theverge.com/transportation/967891/archer-evtol-military-anduril-air-taxi-thunder