Vertical Aerospace Advances Hybrid-Electric and Battery Production for Valo eVTOL

This article is based on an official press release from Vertical Aerospace.

Vertical Aerospace has announced significant progress in its propulsion and energy systems, marking a dual milestone for both its all-electric and hybrid-electric aircraft programs. According to an official press release dated May 19, 2026, the UK-based manufacturers has commenced testing of its next-generation hybrid-electric system and successfully produced the first all-electric Valo battery on a newly upgraded assembly line.

These developments are pivotal for the company’s long-term aviation roadmap. Publicly available industry data indicates that the all-electric Valo eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) aircraft is currently targeting type certification by 2028, while the newly tested hybrid-electric variant is projected for the 2030s. By advancing both battery manufacturing and hybrid powertrain testing simultaneously, Vertical Aerospace aims to secure its supply chain and expand its operational capabilities for both civil and defense markets.

Advancing the Hybrid-Electric Powertrain

Testing for the hybrid-electric system is now underway at the Hybrid Propulsion Evaluation Rig (HYPER) located at Cotswold Airport. The press release notes that this phase follows more than two years of dedicated development at the Vertical Energy Centre. The HYPER facility allows engineers to validate the complete hybrid powertrain, including the turbine, generator, and electrical systems, prior to ground and flight testing.

A key feature of this hybrid system is its compatibility with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Vertical Aerospace states it is collaborating with partners to integrate an SAF-compatible gas turbine with an electric generator. This turbogenerator will eventually be integrated into a prototype hybrid-electric Valo aircraft to support future flight demonstrations.

Expanded Capabilities for Defense and Cargo

The introduction of a hybrid powertrain dramatically shifts the performance metrics of the Valo platform. Based on company data, the hybrid variant targets a range of up to 1,000 miles, a tenfold increase over the all-electric version’s 100-mile range. Additionally, the payload capacity is configurable to carry up to 1,100 kilograms, allowing for a six-passenger layout or substantial cargo transport.

The hybrid model is also being positioned for sensitive and defense missions. The company highlights that the aircraft boasts stealth advantages through low noise and heat signatures, and can operate autonomously or remotely via seamless integration with Honeywell’s Flight Control System.

In-House Battery Production Milestones

Alongside its hybrid testing, Vertical Aerospace confirmed the production of its first all-electric Valo battery on an upgraded assembly line. Launched in March 2026 at the 15,000-square-foot Vertical Energy Centre in Bristol, the new line utilizes automated, aerospace-grade manufacturing processes designed to improve consistency and performance.

These newly manufactured battery packs are slated for rigorous environmental and operational testing. Ultimately, they will power the certification aircraft as Vertical progresses through the final regulatory stages with the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).

“Hybrid capability complements our all-electric Valo platform and unlocks a broader range of civil and defence applications,” stated Stuart Simpson, CEO of Vertical Aerospace, in the company’s release.

AirPro News analysis

We observe that Vertical Aerospace’s dual-track approach, developing an all-electric baseline while simultaneously advancing a hybrid-electric variant, provides a strategic hedge in the highly competitive eVTOL market. By keeping battery production in-house at the Vertical Energy Centre, the company is actively mitigating the supply-chain bottlenecks and integration risks that have historically delayed other manufacturers. Furthermore, the 1,000-mile range and 1,100-kilogram payload of the hybrid variant significantly broaden the aircraft’s total addressable market, moving beyond standard urban air mobility into regional logistics, extended passenger transit, and defense contracting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the hybrid-electric Valo?

According to Vertical Aerospace, the hybrid variant targets a range of up to 1,000 miles, which is a tenfold increase compared to the all-electric model.

When is the all-electric Valo expected to be certified?

Industry data indicates the all-electric Valo is targeting type certification with the UK CAA and EASA in 2028, with the hybrid version expected to follow in the 2030s.

Where are the batteries being manufactured?

The batteries are being produced on an upgraded, automated assembly line at the 15,000-square-foot Vertical Energy Centre in Bristol, UK.

Sources: Vertical Aerospace Press Release