CALIFORNIA-BASED START-UP Archer, officially launched on May 21, with the company unveiling a plan to develop a piloted electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) air taxi to help improve urban mobility. The start-up said that its platform will be fully electric and capable of carrying up to four passengers. It will have a range of 60 miles (96km), be able to reach speeds of up to 150mph (242km/h) and be powered using battery technologies available today. It added that "the battery-powered aircraft aims to provide a faster, sustainable and affordable urban transportation option. Archer's unique design will also offer passengers increased safety while producing minimal noise compared to helicopters." Archer aims to develop a platform that offers private or commercial aerial rides, with low maintenance and energy costs and that is as safe as commercial airliners. The team consists of at least 40 engineers and designers, including industry talent that formerly worked on competing eVTOL ventures, such as Joby and Wisk.
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