GKN Aerospace has signed today at Farnborough a new technology collaboration with German start-up VÆRIDION, focused on advancing aerostructures and electrical wiring interconnection systems (EWIS) for VÆRIDION’s all-electric microliner aircraft.

VÆRIDION is pioneering the development of a nine-passenger-plus-crew all-electric microliner aircraft designed for distances up to 500 kilometres. The aircraft will serve as a use case for innovative EWIS technology programs aimed at electrically powered aircraft, pushing the boundaries of current aerospace capabilities.

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GKN Aerospace will bring its extensive multi-technology and manufacturing expertise to support VÆRIDION in airframe concept and electrical systems studies. This includes leveraging GKN Aerospace’s renowned experience in lightweight aerostructures to optimise the design and functionality of the microliner’s airframe, ensuring the highest standards of performance and efficiency.

Arjen Landman, Sr. Vice-President Civil Programs at GKN Aerospace said: “We are excited to work with VÆRIDION on this innovative project and to push the boundaries of today’s technology. This collaboration combines GKN Aerospace’s expertise in aerostructures and EWIS with VÆRIDION’s innovative approach to electric flight. This partnership underscores our commitment to advancing aviation and will help us support the development of next-generation, energy efficient aircraft.”

VÆRIDION’s microliner is aiming to revolutionise regional air travel by offering a more sustainable alternative to traditional aircraft, significantly reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmentally-friendly transportation solutions.

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Ivor van Dartel, Co-Founder & CEO of VÆRIDION, added, “We are equally excited to sign this new technology collaboration with GKN Aerospace. As a start-up OEM, we are developing a clean sheet aircraft as well as the core propulsive battery technology in-house. To ensure we meet our objective of decarbonizing short haul flights before 2030, we are partnering with GKN Aerospace to accelerate the design of light weight Aerostructures and EWIS, as we benefit from GKN’s experience and capabilities for these core work packages in the Microliner Programme.”