Electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft developer Lilium (Munich, Germany) has confirmed that it is in advanced discussions with the French government on plans to expand its high-volume production capacity via an industrial footprint in France and through potential government subsidies and loan guarantees. Discussions are expected to reach conclusion in the coming weeks.

Lilium is currently evaluating several possible sites in France, including in the aerospace and battery production hotbeds of Nouvelle Aquitaine. Among the many reasons to choose France, Lilium is attracted by France’s well-established aerospace industry, expertise in electric mobility, skilled workforce and supportive government environment. With an estimated total future investment of up to €400 million over several years, Lilium would have the potential to create up to 850 jobs with this expansion.

Lilium was founded in 2015. It began initial production of the Lilium Jet in 2023, with an entry-to-service planned for 2026. With this in mind, the company is preparing for larger scale production to meet expected global market demand. It currently working with multiple Tier 1 suppliers, including established French players such as Saint-Gobain, Michelin, Expliseat and Ratier-Figeac.

Lilium has an order pipeline consisting of more than 780 Lilium Jets, including binding orders and MOU agreements from operators in the U.S., South America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East.