Wedoany.com Report on Mar 19th, Vertical Aerospace has announced that its battery pilot production line is now officially operational at the Vertical Energy Centre (VEC). This UK-based facility, spanning 15,000 square feet and opened in 2023, has been producing battery systems for piloted flight tests since 2024, delivering peak power of up to 1.4 megawatts during testing.
The battery pilot production line has been upgraded with automated, aerospace-grade manufacturing processes. It is designed to support certification and production workflows, enhancing efficiency and battery performance. Vertical will use this line to manufacture final battery packs for seven Valo certification aircraft to complete the final stages of its certification program with the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). It will also provide capacity for the initial phase of commercial production following the target certification in 2028.
Stuart Simpson, CEO of Vertical Aerospace, said: "The operational launch of our automated battery production line is a significant step towards certification and commercialization. We are not only developing an advanced aircraft but also building the industrial capabilities required for production." He added: "Vertical's phased approach aligns manufacturing capacity with our certification roadmap and early commercialization strategy. By investing early in aerospace-grade battery manufacturing, we are reducing integration risks, strengthening supply chain control, and preparing for commercial service."
Vertical's proprietary battery system powers the electric Valo eVTOL aircraft and its hybrid-electric aircraft program. The battery system is a core internal technology expected to generate recurring revenue throughout the aircraft's lifecycle, beyond just aircraft sales. The company anticipates supplying approximately 20 battery packs per aircraft over its operational life, with up to around 45,000 battery packs for its fleet by 2035.
Furthermore, Vertical is expanding its manufacturing capabilities by developing the Vertical Energy Centre 2 (VEC2). This new 30,000-square-foot facility, adjacent to the existing site and expected to open later this year, will triple battery production capacity. By 2027, the company expects to invest £6.4 million or $8.5 million in the VEC and VEC2 facilities.
Vertical continues to expand its operations in South West England, currently employing around 450 people. The company expects to announce the location for full-rate production and battery facilities, considering sites in the UK and beyond, with a final decision anticipated later this year. As production scales up, Vertical forecasts that the number of high-skilled jobs associated with its manufacturing ecosystem will rise to at least 2,220 by 2035.
