Sebastian Born (Lilium GmbH)
Overview
Sebastian Born is a co-founder and key figure at Lilium GmbH, a pioneering aerospace company developing innovative vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircrafts. Born, along with his team, founded the company in 2015 while pursuing their studies at the Technical University of Munich. Lilium has gained recognition for developing the Lilium Jet, an all-electric air taxi designed to revolutionize urban air mobility. Through its advancements in VTOL technology, Lilium aims to deliver a sustainable, efficient, and commercially-viable air transport solution.
Recent Developments
Recent years have demonstrated both strides and challenges for Lilium GmbH:
- October 2024: Lilium filed for self-administration of its Germany-based subsidiaries after failing to secure a government-backed loan deemed crucial for its financial viability. This decision was driven by insolvency at Lilium GmbH, necessitating a structured insolvency process to potentially restructure and preserve the company's operations.
- July 2024: Lilium entered a significant agreement with Saudia Group for the purchase of 50 Lilium Jets, illustrating continued interest in their technology from international partners.
- May 2024: Efforts to boost funding led to a capital raise amounting to 227 million euros, although subsequent attempts to secure additional state-backed financial support remained unsuccessful.
- March 2024: Despite financial challenges, Lilium continued to innovate, notably partnering with GE Aerospace to strengthen safety standards in its eVTOL technology—a significant step in preparing for commercial operations and regulatory compliance.
- June 2023: Lilium started integrating flight data management solutions to enhance operational safety, reflecting its commitment to leveraging digital transformations in aviation.
Personal Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sebastian Born |
| Born | Germany |
| Nationality | German |
| Occupation | Co-founder, Lilium GmbH |
| Known For | Lilium Jet, VTOL technology |
| Education | Master’s in Development and Construction |
| Previous Roles | Head of Mechanical Engineering, Lilium Aviation |
Early Life and Education
Sebastian Born has cultivated a passion for engineering from an early age. Raised in Germany, he pursued mechanical engineering and demonstrated an affinity for technical innovation. Born completed his Bachelor’s degree at the Technical University of Berlin and further intensified his focus on development and design at the Technical University of Munich. Fascinated by aerospace innovation, Born contributed to research at the Institute of Machine Elements (FZG) in Munich, where he honed skills integral to Lilium's foundational technology.
Career and Notable Achievements
Sebastian Born began his professional journey as a researcher, which provided him foundational expertise for launching an aerospace startup:
- 2014: Co-founded Lilium GmbH, alongside partners Daniel Wiegand, Matthias Meiner, and Patrick Nathen.
- 2017: Lilium's Eagle proof-of-concept model successfully conducted its maiden flight, spearheaded by Born’s efforts in mechanical systems and verification.
- 2019: Lilium unveiled its five-seater jet, further progressing Born's engineering contributions and demonstrating VTOL flight capabilities.
Current Work and Impact
Today, Born continues to lead innovative projects at Lilium, focusing on developing the operational and technical facets of Lilium's pioneering aircraft. His work on structures and interior design not only underpins Lilium's technological advances but also brings Born's vision of transforming air travel closer to reality. Despite financial setbacks, Lilium's ongoing technological milestones and strategic partnerships spotlight Born's impactful role in advancing aerospace innovation.
Klaus Roewe
Klaus Roewe joined Lilium as CEO in August 2022, following a productive tenure at Airbus where he led the A320 program. Under his leadership, Lilium has navigated complex financial landscapes and pursued strategic collaborations to bolster the company's technological capacity and market positioning.
Lilium Founder
Sebastian Born, alongside his co-founders, played an integral role in establishing Lilium GmbH from an ambitious concept into a tangible business pursuing air mobility solutions. Their collective expertise and shared vision have enabled Lilium to emerge as a prominent innovator in the aerospace industry.
Lilium News
Recent developments underscore Lilium's dynamic trajectory, encompassing advancements in its jet program and strategic alliances aimed to enhance its competitive edge. The operational restructuring within its German subsidiaries poses challenges while also potentially paving the way for future reorganization and revitalization.
Conclusion
Sebastian Born exemplifies the drive and expertise needed to propel aerospace innovation forward. As a co-founder of Lilium GmbH, his contributions have been pivotal in crafting cutting-edge VTOL technology. While the company’s financial journey encounters hurdles, Born's efforts continue to strive toward sustainable air mobility, with potential impacts poised to revolutionize the future of transportation.