zeit.de
Geely in Talks to Acquire Volocopter
Chinese conglomerate Geely in talks to acquire German air taxi startup Volocopter to prevent insolvency.
German
Germany
TechnologyChinaArtificial IntelligenceInvestmentFinanceInternational TradeAcquisitionAir Taxis
VolocopterGeelyZhejiang Geely HoldingLeibniz-Zentrum Für Europäische Wirtschaftsforschung (Zew)Lilium
Dirk HokeKlaus RoeweDorothee Bär
- What is the main subject of the news article?
- Geely, a Chinese conglomerate, is in advanced talks to acquire a majority stake in Volocopter, a German air taxi startup, to prevent its potential insolvency.
- What are the challenges faced by the German air taxi industry?
- The German air taxi industry faces challenges, with Volocopter previously seeking government support that did not materialize, highlighting the sector's financial struggles and the lack of widespread commercial success.
- What are the financial details of the potential deal with Geely?
- The potential deal involves Geely leading a consortium to invest approximately €90 million for an 85% stake in Volocopter; due diligence is expected to conclude next month.
- What does a recent study reveal about the advantages of air taxis?
- A recent study revealed that air taxis offer minimal travel time reduction but significantly increase costs and CO2 emissions compared to electric cars, questioning their practical advantages.
- What is Volocopter's official statement regarding the potential acquisition?
- Volocopter, while confirming discussions about various financing options, declined to comment specifically on the Geely deal due to ongoing financial and contractual obligations.