Vertical Aerospace Selects Astronics as Low-Voltage Power Distribution Supplier for Valo eVTOL

Vertical Aerospace has announced a long-term agreement with Astronics Corporation to supply the low-voltage (LV) power distribution system for its Valo eVTOL aircraft.

System Function and Technical Details

Under the agreement, Astronics will provide Valo's low-voltage power distribution system, encompassing power conversion and distribution hardware responsible for managing and protecting the electrical supply to the aircraft's critical systems. The system converts high-voltage power generated by the aircraft's propulsion architecture into the low-voltage power required by avionics, flight control systems, and other essential onboard systems.

Astronics was already involved during the Valo prototype development phase, with its hardware integrated into Vertical's crewed flight test vehicle.

Statements from Both Sides

Vertical Aerospace CEO Stuart Simpson said: "Building an aircraft that can achieve airworthiness certification requires not only breakthrough technology but also a world-class supplier ecosystem. Astronics brings deep expertise in aircraft electrical systems and has demonstrated its capabilities through our flight test programme. This agreement is an important milestone as we advance Valo's design maturity, strengthen our supply chain, and progress toward type certification and commercial production."

Jon Neal, President of Astronics Advanced Electronic Systems, said: "Astronics is honoured to serve as the power distribution supplier for Vertical Aerospace's Valo aircraft. Our CorePower® system was purpose-built for eVTOL applications, integrating high-voltage conversion and low-voltage distribution into a single solution to deliver reliable, fault-protected power to flight-critical systems including avionics, flight controls, and navigation. CorePower was designed from the outset to aviation certification standards, offering customers a lightweight, compact solution that reduces system integration risk and supports their type certification journey. We look forward to continuing to work closely with the Vertical team as we progress through the Critical Design Review (CDR) and toward Valo's entry into service."

A Growing Supplier Ecosystem

This partnership further strengthens the supplier ecosystem Vertical has assembled for Valo's key systems, which already includes a number of industry-leading companies:

• Honeywell – Flight control and vehicle management systems
• Aciturri – Airframe structures
• Evolito – Electric propulsion units
• Hyundai WIA – Landing gear
• Syensqo – Composite materials
• Isoclima – Transparencies (cockpit glazing)

Advancing Toward Critical Design Review

This announcement represents the latest milestone in the ongoing progression of the Valo programme. Vertical Aerospace is actively working toward a Critical Design Review (CDR), which will establish a certifiable design baseline for the aircraft and enable subsequent production and testing of conforming certification vehicles.

Astronics Corporation has served the aerospace, defence, and other mission-critical industries for more than 50 years, providing integrated solutions spanning power, connectivity, lighting, structures, interiors, and test technologies. The company is trusted by airframe manufacturers, airlines, military customers, and Fortune 500 companies worldwide.

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