DAVOS, Switzerland--(BUSINESS WIRE)---- $ACHR #Archer--Archer Aviation Inc. (NYSE: ACHR) today announced a partnership with the Government of the Republic of Serbia as the country seeks to play a key role in driving the adoption of electric air taxis across Europe. Under the agreement, Serbia has selected Archer as its preferred eVTOL partner and has the option to purchase an initial fleet of Midnight aircraft. The agreement provides for the purchase of up to 25 aircraft, in accordance with the applicable l ...

Core Insights - Joby Aviation's electric air taxis are set to commence commercial operations in Dubai by the end of this year, as announced by the Chairman of Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority, Mattar Al Tayer [2] - The Joby Aerial Taxi can travel distances of up to 160 kilometers (100 miles) and reach speeds of 320 km/hr (200 mph) [3] - Joby's air taxi is designed to have zero operating emissions and is quiet enough for use in densely populated urban areas [4] - In early 2024, Joby secured a contract with Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority, granting exclusive rights to operate aerial taxis in the city for the next six years [4]

Core Viewpoint - Archer Aviation is partnering with various companies to develop and test electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft operations in Saudi Arabia, indicating a strengthening international presence in the electric air taxi market [1][4]. Company Developments - Archer is expected to generate revenue starting next year and is forming partnerships with major governments, including the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund [4]. - The company has established partnerships with technology firms like Stellantis, a major automobile manufacturer [5][7]. - Archer and its competitor Joby are both past the development phase and are currently focused on testing and obtaining regulatory approvals [3][6]. Industry Trends - The electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicle space is anticipated to become the norm, with increasing investments from countries like Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi due to favorable regulatory environments [2][4]. - Both Archer and Joby are overcoming previous challenges related to battery weight and efficiency, which is crucial for the viability of electric air taxis [8]. Market Performance - Archer's stock has seen a decline over the last 30 days, reflecting broader trends among high-risk growth stocks that have yet to generate revenue, although it remains higher year-to-date [8]. - The market is scrutinizing the growth story of electric air taxi companies, particularly regarding the high costs of continued development and the lack of consistent profitability [9].

Core Viewpoint - Archer Aviation has experienced significant stock price growth and market interest, driven by strategic partnerships and advancements in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology, despite its current pre-revenue status and high valuation metrics [1][2][4][16]. Company Overview - Archer Aviation, headquartered in San Jose, focuses on designing and manufacturing eVTOL aircraft for urban air mobility, with its flagship model, Midnight, aimed at reducing short car commutes to 10-20 minute flights [3][5]. - The company has raised over $850 million to support its manufacturing and certification plans, indicating strong financial backing for its growth initiatives [3]. Recent Developments - Archer announced a partnership with Korean Air to deliver up to 100 Midnight eVTOL aircraft, marking a significant step in its international expansion and positioning Korea as a leader in advanced air mobility [4][6]. - The stock price surged nearly 9% following the announcement of the Korean Air deal, reflecting investor optimism about Archer's growth potential [6]. Financial Performance - Archer reported a net loss of $206 million in Q2, nearly double the loss from the same quarter the previous year, with operating expenses increasing significantly due to ramped-up engineering and manufacturing efforts [10]. - The company ended the quarter with approximately $1.73 billion in cash and equivalents, its highest cash balance to date, bolstered by an $850 million equity raise [11][12]. Market Position and Analyst Sentiment - Analysts generally maintain a bullish outlook on Archer, with a consensus rating of "Moderate Buy" and no "Sell" ratings, indicating confidence in the company's long-term potential despite its current cash burn and pre-revenue status [15][16]. - The high target price of $18 suggests an expected upside potential of around 70% from current trading levels, reflecting optimism about Archer's future revenue generation capabilities [15].