WESSLING, Germany—Lilium N.V. has started to install state-of-the-art production equipment to assemble the propulsion units of its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft at its factory here. It is located in the same facility as the startup company’s aerostructures assemble line that is building canards and wings.

Schnaithmann Maschinenbau GmbH is bulding the assembly line. The German automation and robotics company is also supplying jigs and tools for the Lilium Jet’s fuselage and final assembly lines.

The propulsion unit is a core company technology and key to providing the required performance for regional air mobility applications. It consists of electric jet engines integrated into the propulsion mounting system that forms the rear part of the wings and front aerofoils.

Lilium claims that the unique propulsion system will provide advantages in payload, aerodynamic efficiency and a reduced noise profile, while also providing thrust vector control to maneuver the eVTOL through every phase of flight. Major subassemblies are being supplied by companies such as Denso and Honeywell (e-motors), Aeronamic (fans) and SKF (electric motor bearings).

“We are delighted to be able to move forward toward production of our jet propulsion system,” says Jan Nowacki, senior vice president of manufacturing at Lilium. “With the support of Schnaithmann, we look forward to implementing state-of-the-art manufacturing solutions capable of being scaled-up and replicated for high-volume production.”