Vertical Aerospace has collaborated with Astronics Corporation for a long-term agreement to supply the LV power distribution system for its Valo electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, strengthening its supplier network as the programme moves towards certification.
Astronics will provide the low-voltage power distribution system, including power conversion and distribution hardware that converts high-voltage power from the aircraft’s propulsion system into low-voltage power for avionics, flight controls and other critical onboard systems. The company has already supported Vertical during the prototype phase, with its technology integrated into the manufacturer’s piloted flight-test aircraft.
Stuart Simpson, CEO of Vertical Aerospace, said, “Building a certifiable aircraft requires not only breakthrough technology, but also a world-class supplier ecosystem. Astronics brings deep expertise in aircraft electrical power systems and has already demonstrated its capabilities through our flight test programme. This agreement is another important step as we mature Valo’s design, strengthen our supply chain and advance toward certification and commercial production.”
Astronics will deliver its CorePower system, which is designed specifically for eVTOL applications. According to Jon Neal, president of Astronics Advanced Electronic Systems, “CorePower was designed from the ground up to meet aerospace certification standards, giving our customers a lightweight, compact solution that reduces integration risk and supports their path to type certification. We look forward to continuing our close collaboration with the Vertical team through CDR and Valo’s entry into service.”
This agreement expands Vertical’s supplier ecosystem with Honeywell, Aciturri, Evolito, Hyundai WIA, Synesqo and Isoclima. As the announcement comes, the Valo Programme advances towards its Critical Design Review (CDR) while establishing the aircraft’s certifiable design before production of certification-conforming aircraft and testing.
