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Vertical Aerospace .(EVTL) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-05-13 13:32
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net cash used in operating activities for Q1 2025 was approximately $30 million, with guidance for the year unchanged at approximately $110 to $125 million [42][48] - The company closed the quarter with approximately $90 million in cash and cash equivalents [43] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The hybrid aircraft program represents a significant market opportunity, with a range of over 1,000 miles, targeting defense and commercial operations [6][22] - The battery systems are expected to generate a 50/50 revenue split between aircraft and battery sales by the 2030s, with a gross margin of over 40% for batteries [23][80] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is positioned to serve the full global market by certifying to the highest aviation standards, with ongoing discussions for certification in the US, Middle East, and Asia [87][88] - The hybrid aircraft's capabilities are expected to open up new opportunities in regional air mobility, with a payload capability of over 1,100 kilograms [70] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company launched its Flight Path 2030 business strategy, aiming to lead the eVTOL sector by the end of the decade with a clear roadmap and certification timetable [7][8] - Partnerships with Honeywell for flight controls and aircraft management systems are expected to enhance production efficiency and safety [19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving certification goals by 2028, with significant progress in flight testing and regulatory approvals [41][44] - The company emphasized the importance of safety and compliance with rigorous certification standards, which are seen as critical to market acceptance [86][99] Other Important Information - The company announced the addition of three new directors to strengthen governance and strategic leadership [21] - The hybrid powertrain will be integrated into the existing airframe, with flight testing planned for Q2 2026 [60] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact on cash spend and cash burn due to hybrid announcement - Management indicated that the development of the hybrid powertrain was already included in previous cash spend projections, with no change to guidance for the year [47][48] Question: Certification requirements for hybrid VTOL - The hybrid product will be certified as a separate aircraft, likely around the same time as the electric VX4, with a full-scale piloted hybrid aircraft expected to fly in Q2 next year [52][53] Question: Integration of hybrid powertrain into existing airframes - The hybrid powertrain will be integrated into an existing airframe currently under construction, with initial flights as an all-electric aircraft [59][60] Question: Expectations for wing-borne testing - Wing-borne testing is expected to begin in Q2 2025, marking a significant milestone for the company [68] Question: Commercial opportunities with hybrid propulsion - The hybrid aircraft is expected to expand capabilities into regional air mobility, with potential interest from airlines for short regional flights [70] Question: Battery business model and revenue generation timeline - The battery business is expected to follow a razor-razor blade model, with significant revenue from battery sales anticipated within a few years after launch [80][81]