Astronics is to supply the power distribution system for Lilium’s seven-seat eVTOL aircraft. In a June 29 announcement, Lilium confirmed the latest in a recent string of key supplier appointments and said that Astronics will be responsible for the vehicle's secondary and charging power distribution units (respectively the SPDU and CPDU).
Each Lilium Jet will be equipped with a pair of SPDUs and a single CPDU. The SPDUs ensure a reliable supply of power from the batteries to the aircraft's critical systems, including flight controls, avionics, navigation, and communication, as well as sensors, lights, and passenger cabin equipment. The units convert high-voltage (1,000 VDC) to low-voltage (VDC) power, distributing this to where it is needed and guarding against surges and other safety risks.
The CPDU manages the process for charging batteries and provides additional sources for high- to low-voltage power conversion to minimize common-cause failure modes with the SPDU. According to Germany-based Lilium, it will also offer an added layer of safety by monitoring insulation to detect and report any short-circuit risks across the power distribution system.
Astronics is a Tier 1 aerospace supplier specializing in power, lighting, and connectivity systems, which it has provided to major aircraft manufacturers, including Airbus, Boeing, and Embraer. The U.S.-based group has been working with Lilium to define the program’s power distribution needs for over a year. It says Lilium will be the launch customer for its CorePower high-voltage products developed specifically for new electric aircraft.
Other recent key supplier announcements for the Lilium Jet have included partners for electric motors, batteries, wing flaps, and seats. The aircraft is expected to receive type certification in 2025.
