Archer Aviation Inc.

Key Points
Archer Aviation is scaling its electric air taxi platform through high-profile partnerships with commercial airlines and defense contractors.
Redwire provides essential space infrastructure and autonomous systems for government agencies and the growing commercial space sector.
Which aerospace innovator is the better choice for your growth portfolio as these industries mature in 2026?
The race to dominate the skies and low-earth orbit is intensifying as new technologies reshape the future of transportation. Investors must decide between Archer Aviation (NYSE:ACHR) and Redwire Corp (NYSE:RDW) to capture this potential.
Archer is focused on the emerging electric vertical takeoff and landing market, aiming to revolutionize urban travel with quiet, battery-powered aircraft. Redwire specializes in the essential hardware and systems that power modern space missions. Both companies operate among defense stocks and aerospace innovators, though they target different frontiers.
The case for Archer Aviation
Archer Aviation builds electric air taxis designed to move passengers over traffic in dense urban areas. Its primary product is the Midnight aircraft, but it also recently unveiled the Thunder autonomous platform in partnership with Anduril Industries. Archer relies heavily on major partners like United Airlines Holdings (NASDAQ:UAL) and the U.S. Air Force. Customer concentration like that adds a layer of risk to the business.
For fiscal year 2025, Archer Aviation reported revenue of just $300,000. This early-stage revenue was accompanied by a net loss of approximately $618.2 million. This reflects a company still in its pre-commercial phase as it pursues aircraft type and production certification.
As of its December 2025 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio was roughly 0.1x. This ratio measures total debt, including short- and long-term obligations, against shareholders' equity, with a lower number indicating less reliance on borrowed money. Free cash flow was negative at $511.7 million, representing the cash remaining after operating and capital spending are covered.
The case for Redwire
Redwire provides infrastructure for the space economy, including solar arrays and autonomous docking systems for satellites. It serves high-profile clients like NASA and the European Space Agency, and it recently won a contract with the Belgian Defence for a security satellite. A significant portion of revenue comes from government contracts, which means the company is sensitive to shifts in federal spending.
In FY 2025, revenue reached approximately $335.4 million, representing a growth rate of about 10% compared to the previous year. Despite this growth, the company reported a net loss of nearly $226.6 million, almost double 2024. The net margin, a measure of how much revenue remains after all operating and non-operating costs, was negative 68% for the period.
Based on the December 2025 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio is approximately 0.2x. Free cash flow, which is cash from operations minus capital expenditures, was negative $200 million during the fiscal year, up sharply from 2024.
Risk profile comparison
Archer faces significant hurdles regarding FAA type certification for its Midnight aircraft, as any delays could halt its commercial launch plans. The company also requires substantial capital to continue its operations while reporting heavy losses. Furthermore, Archer is involved in a legal dispute with Joby Aviation (NYSE:JOBY) regarding trade secrets, and scaling its manufacturing to meet production targets remains a major challenge.
Redwire is currently implementing governance reforms following a settlement related to a shareholder lawsuit. The company also launched a $500 million stock offering in 2026, which poses a risk of dilution to existing shareholders by increasing the total number of shares. Additionally, Redwire is managing material weaknesses in its internal financial controls and risks related to its acquisition of Edge Autonomy.
Valuation comparison
Archer Aviation is valued at a massive premium to its current sales compared to the more established revenue stream at Redwire.
Metric
Archer Aviation
Redwire
Forward P/E
n/a
n/a
P/S ratio
1,770x
3.8x
Valuation metrics sourced from Financial Modeling Prep (FMP) and may differ from other data providers.
Which stock would I buy in 2026?
In April, Redwire was selected as one of 14 vendors (out of a total of 32 bids) on the Space Systems Command $1.8 billion 10-year Andromeda Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity, or IDIQ contract. That’s a project to replace aging GPS satellites and upgrade the U.S. space infrastructure to counter emerging threats. An IDIQ win would be something management feels moves Redwire ‘up the food chain’ with the Department of Defense. It could mean significantly more revenue, since U.S. Space Systems Command provided a notice of its intent to raise the total shared ceiling for the Andromeda IDIQ to more than $6 billion to meet increased demand.
In the near-term, Redwire expects fiscal 2026 revenue to come in around $475 million, growth of about 40% opver the prior year. In addition, the business has an order backlog of $498 million. The business is still expected to post net losses for the foreseeable future, but they are trending in the right direction.
Archer Aviation is taking steps to refurbish a small Los Angeles airport, Hawthorne, for use as its testing grounds. That comes after the federal government created a framework in 2025 for real-world testing of eVTOL aircraft, a concrete step toward making Archer's vision a reality. Other countries, including Japan, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia, are developing similar regulatory frameworks.
The company is working to scale up its manufacturing capabilities to eventually reach capacity for 50 planes a year, assuming testing goes well. Executives at the business have an initial plan to focus on military and cargo uses for its plane, which would be an easier path to early revenue. Future estimates are speculative, but Wall Street analysts see Archer turning its first profit in 2030, with $2.3 billion in revenue.
The major card Archer is holding is the purchase agreement with United Airlines to serve as taxis, extending the airline’s services. The contract isn’t guaranteed to be executed in full, however. A lot still has to happen for Archer’s aircraft to get into the skies, but the notion that the nation's airspace is being regulated in a way that is holding back growth is one that has found favor among U.S. leadership.
Both businesses are exciting young particopants is expanding sectors. Redwire competes in a hotly contested business against many well-financed competitors. So does Archer, but the electric taxi-plane niche appears to be one it can dominate, so it gets the nod as the better buy in 2026.
Should you buy stock in Archer Aviation right now?
Before you buy stock in Archer Aviation, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Archer Aviation wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $379,662!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,206,116!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 886% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 206% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
Brendan Coffey has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Archer Aviation vs. Redwire: Which Aerospace Stock Is a Better Buy in 2026?

Key Points
Archer Aviation has secured significant strategic partnerships with United Airlines and the U.S. Air Force for its electric flight technology.
QuantumScape is collaborating with major automotive players like Volkswagen and Honda to industrialize solid-state battery technology.
Which next-generation transportation stock is the better choice for your portfolio in 2026?
The race to revolutionize transportation is heating up between electric flight and solid-state batteries. Choosing between Archer Aviation (NYSE:ACHR) and QuantumScape Corp(NASDAQ:QS) requires understanding which high-stakes technology is closer to reality.
Archer Aviation aims to transform urban mobility with its electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, while QuantumScape focuses on the battery technology that could power the next generation of electric vehicles. Both companies operate in pre-revenue or early-revenue stages, making them speculative bets on the future of transportation and clean energy storage.
The case for Archer Aviation
Archer Aviation specializes in electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, focusing on its Midnight model for urban air-taxi services. The company maintains a conditional purchase agreement with United Airlines (NASDAQ:UAL) for up to $1 billion in aircraft and works with the U.S. Air Force. Customer concentration like this adds risk, as does its expansion into defense stocks through a collaboration with Anduril Industries.
For fiscal year 2025, Archer Aviation reported revenue of just $300,000. This early-stage revenue was accompanied by a net loss of approximately $618.2 million. This reflects a company still in its pre-commercial phase as it pursues aircraft type and production certification.
As of its December 2025 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio was roughly 0.1x. This ratio measures total debt, including short- and long-term obligations, against shareholders' equity, with a lower number indicating less reliance on borrowed money. Free cash flow was negative at $511.7 million, representing the cash remaining after operating and capital spending are covered.
The case for QuantumScape
QuantumScape focuses on developing solid-state lithium-metal batteries designed to offer greater range and faster charging than current electric vehicle technology. The company primarily partners with PowerCo, a subsidiary of Volkswagen, to industrialize its battery cells. In July 2026, it expanded its reach by partnering with Honda Motor Co (NYSE:HMC) to validate these batteries, leveraging the manufacturing scale of established automotive giants.
In FY 2025, QuantumScape did not generate any as the company remained in the pre-commercial development phase. Consequently, it reported a net loss of nearly $435.1 million for the year. Because there is no revenue yet, it is a period where research costs far exceed current sales.
As of its December 2025 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio was roughly 0.1x. This indicates that total debt is low relative to the equity held by shareholders. Free cash flow, which is the cash left over after paying for operations and equipment, was nearly negative $279 million.
Risk profile comparison
Archer Aviation faces significant regulatory hurdles because its success depends entirely on obtaining certifications from the FAA and international authorities. Without these, the Midnight aircraft cannot fly commercially. The company also deals with high capital intensity and a history of losses that necessitate constant external funding, risking potential shareholder dilution.
QuantumScape faces risks regarding manufacturing scale-up as it transitions from prototype samples to high-volume production. Transitioning its proprietary ceramic separator technology to a commercial scale is unproven and could reveal technical defects. The company also has a financial dependency on external capital and relies on partners like Volkswagen and Honda to adopt its technology.
Valuation comparison
While both Acrher and QuantumScape lack a Forward P/E ratio, which compares stock price to future earnings estimates, Archer Aviation carries a high P/S ratio. This price-to-sales metric compares market value to annual revenue. With no revenue, QuantumScape does not have a P/S ratio.
Metric
Archer Aviation
QuantumScape
Forward P/E
n/a
n/a
P/S ratio
1,770x
n/a
Valuation metrics sourced from Financial Modeling Prep (FMP) and may differ from other data providers.
Which stock would I buy in 2026?
QuantumScape is working on commercializing solid-state lithium metal. It's called lithium metal because, in the charge state, energy is stored in its ionic state in a very thin layer of lithium metal. That saves weight and volume by eliminating the anode that is present in lithium-ion batteries. It also improves charge time because there's less distance for the lithium-ion to travel. It also improves safety because the battery has no organic material in the anode, which in turn improves battery life, as one of the major sources of life loss is in that anode that QuantumScape’s battery design eliminates.
Four of the world’s 10 largest automakers are working with the company now to help develop the battery for commercial production. The first revenue from batteries should appear in 2027, when a modest $35 million is expected. By 2029, revenue is projected to be in the hundreds of millions of dollars, but forecasts that far ahead are, of course, more speculative.
Archer, meanwhile, has its trump card as the purchase agreement with United Airlines to serve as taxis, extending the airline’s services. The contract isn’t guaranteed to be executed in full, however.
But the company is making progress toward executing on that deal. For one, the federal government created a framework in 2025 for real-world testing of eVTOL aircraft, a concrete step toward making Archer's vision a reality. Other countries, including Japan, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia, are developing similar regulatory frameworks. A lot still has to happen for Archer’s aircraft to get into the skies, but the notion that the nation's airspace is being regulated in a way that is holding back growth is one that has found favor among U.S. leadership.
Archer is taking steps to refurbish a small Los Angeles airport, Hawthorne, for use as its testing grounds and is working to scale up its manufacturing capabilities to eventually reach capacity for 50 planes a year. Executives at the business have an initial plan to focus on military and cargo uses for its plane, which would be an easier path to early revenue. Future estimates are speculative, but Wall Street analysts see Archer turning its first profit in 2030, with $2.3 billion in revenue, but a lot has to go right between now and then.
These are both intriguing upstart companies that promise to enter an attractive market. The nod here goes to QuantumScape because of the massive potential to replace Li-ion batteries in automobiles, which would solve a number of issues for the industry, from supply chain to safety to performance.
Should you buy stock in Archer Aviation right now?
Before you buy stock in Archer Aviation, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Archer Aviation wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $379,662!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,206,116!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 886% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 206% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
Brendan Coffey has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Archer Aviation vs. QuantumScape: Which EV Stock Is a Better Buy in 2026?

Key Points
Archer Aviation is moving toward commercialization of its Midnight eVTOL aircraft with backing from major airline and automotive partners.
Rivian Automotive continues to scale production of its electric trucks and delivery vans while benefiting from a major software joint venture.
Which futuristic transport stock deserves a spot in your portfolio as these technologies reach maturity?
As we look toward the future of transport, investors are weighing the potential of Archer Aviation (NYSE:ACHR) against the established electric vehicle production of Rivian Automotive (NASDAQ:RIVN).
Archer is focused on the emerging electric aviation market through urban air taxi services, whereas Rivian is a manufacturer of electric consumer and commercial trucks. Both companies are navigating the capital-intensive transition from development to high-volume commercial scaling.
The case for Archer Aviation
Archer builds electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft for urban air mobility and plans to operate its own air-taxi networks. It is a high-profile player among industrial stocks moving toward electrification. Partners like United Airlines Holdings (NASDAQ:UAL) have placed conditional orders, though such customer concentration adds a layer of risk to the business.
For fiscal year 2025, Archer Aviation reported revenue of just $300,000. This early-stage revenue was accompanied by a net loss of approximately $618.2 million. This reflects a company still in its pre-commercial phase as it pursues aircraft type and production certification.
As of its December 2025 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio was roughly 0.1x. This ratio measures total debt, including short- and long-term obligations, against shareholders' equity, with a lower number indicating less reliance on borrowed money. Free cash flow was negative at $511.7 million, representing the cash remaining after operating and capital spending are covered.
The case for Rivian Automotive
Rivian Automotive designs and manufactures electric vehicles for both retail consumers and commercial clients like Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:AMZN). Its technical operations are anchored by a joint venture with Volkswagen Group, which serves as a primary partner for software and electrical architecture. This direct-to-consumer model allows the company to manage its brand and service experience without a traditional dealership network.
In FY 2025, revenue reached roughly $5.4 billion, representing growth of approximately 9% compared to the prior year. The company reported a net loss of more than $3.6 billion for the fiscal year. This resulted in a net margin of negative 67%, reflecting the high costs of manufacturing and scaling its vehicle platforms.
As of the December 2025 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio is approximately 1.5x, comparing total debt to the value of shareholder equity. Free cash flow for FY 2025 was negative by close to $1.65 billion, reflecting cash from operations minus capital expenditures.
Risk profile comparison
Archer faces significant hurdles related to FAA and GCAA certification processes, where delays could postpone commercialization for its flagship hubs. The company also requires ongoing capital investment and faces uncertainty in future fundraising, while navigating intellectual property litigation with Joby Aviation (NYSE:JOBY). Finally, its reliance on Stellantis (NYSE:STLA) for volume manufacturing introduces operational risks if production fails to scale as expected.
Rivian continues to experience high cash burn and depends on external financing to fund its expansion plans. The joint venture with Volkswagen Group is essential for software development, but recent legal issues involving partner engineers create governance uncertainty. High dependency on Amazon for commercial orders and intense price competition in the electric vehicle market also pressure its ability to reach profitability.
Valuation comparison
Rivian Automotive maintains a lower P/S ratio (price-to-revenue), while neither has earnings estimates for the current fiscal year, and therefore do not have a future price-to-earings ratio
Metric
Archer Aviation
Rivian Automotive
Forward P/E
n/a
n/a
P/S ratio
1,770x
3.6x
Valuation metrics sourced from Financial Modeling Prep (FMP) and may differ from other data providers.
Which stock would I buy in 2026?
Looking at Archer Aviation, the federal government created a framework in 2025 for real-world testing of eVTOL aircraft, a concrete step toward making Archer's vision a reality. Other countries, including Japan, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia, are developing similar regulatory frameworks. A lot still has to happen for Archer’s aircraft to get into the skies, but the notion that the nation's airspace is being regulated in a way that is holding back growth is one that has found favor among U.S. leadership.
Archer is taking steps to refurbish a small Los Angeles airport, Hawthorne, for use as its testing grounds and is working to scale up its manufacturing capabilities to eventually reach capacity for 50 planes a year. Executives at the business have an initial plan to focus on military and cargo uses for its plane, which would be an easier path to early revenue. Future estimates are speculative, but Wall Street analysts see Archer turning its first profit in 2030, with $2.3 billion in revenue, but a lot has to go right between now and then.
The major card Archer is holding is the purchase agreement with United Airlines to serve as taxis, extending the airline’s services. The contract isn’t guaranteed to be executed in full, however.
Rivian has been affected by the slowdown in U.S. EV sales over the last couple of years, as people increasingly prefer hybrid vehicles. Trucks and SUVs have become increasingly popular with U.S. consumers over the past decade, but competition in the electric truck/SUV space is increasing. Still, the R1 is the best-selling SUV over $70,000 in the state of California — EV or combustion engine — and is the best-selling EV SUV nationally priced over $70,000.
Across the R1, R2, and commercial vehicles it produces, Rivian expects to deliver about 65,000 cars in 2026, producing revenue of $7.3 billion, a rise of 35%. The net loss should narrow slightly to $3.5 billion, though negative free cash flow is expected to balloon.
Still, Rivian has more cash than most EV startups, and its partnerships with Volkswagen and Amazon provide some stability. Archer, meanwhile, still has to get through proof-of-concept and manufacturing, something Rivian has tackled. For 2026, go with Rivian.
Should you buy stock in Archer Aviation right now?
Before you buy stock in Archer Aviation, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Archer Aviation wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $379,662!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,206,116!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 886% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 206% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
*Stock Advisor returns as of July 28, 2026.
Brendan Coffey has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Amazon. The Motley Fool recommends Stellantis. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Archer Aviation vs. Rivian Automotive: Which EV Vehicle Stock Is a Better Buy in 2026?

Key Points
BWX Technologies currently shows a much stronger and more established baseline for revenue generation, while Archer Aviation is only just beginning to report recognizable sales figures.
BWX Technologies experienced consistent quarter-over-quarter revenue progression over the past two years, whereas Archer Aviation recorded zero revenue until the final two quarters of the tracked period.
Investors should watch whether the massive revenue gap continues to widen over time or if the two companies begin to see their respective trajectories converge in upcoming quarters.
BWX Technologies: Steady Revenue Progression
BWX Technologies (NYSE:BWXT) operates globally to produce and sell precision nuclear components, reactors, and specialized nuclear fuel for defense programs and commercial energy applications.
It completed the acquisition of Precision Components Group to add heavy-manufacturing capacity in July 2026, and for the quarter ended March 31, 2026, it reported a net income margin of 11%.
Archer Aviation: Transitioning to Revenue Generation
Archer Aviation (NYSE:ACHR) focuses on urban air mobility, specializing in the development, manufacturing, and operation of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for passenger transport.
While partnering with Anduril Industries to unveil a jointly developed autonomous flight platform in July of 2026, it reported an earnings per share (EPS) of -$0.28 for the quarter ended March 31, 2026.
Why Revenue Matters for Retail Investors
Revenue serves as a fundamental metric for investors to track total sales volume before subtracting operating costs. Understanding this top-line figure helps investors measure how effectively a business generates sales over time.
Quarterly Revenue for BWX Technologies and Archer Aviation
Quarter (Period End)
BWX Technologies Revenue
Archer Aviation Revenue
Q2 2024 (June 2024)
$681.5 million
$0.00
Q3 2024 (Sept. 2024)
$672.0 million
$0.00
Q4 2024 (Dec. 2024)
$746.3 million
$0.00
Q1 2025 (March 2025)
$682.3 million
$0.00
Q2 2025 (June 2025)
$764.0 million
$0.00
Q3 2025 (Sept. 2025)
$866.3 million
$0.00
Q4 2025 (Dec. 2025)
$885.8 million
$300,000
Q1 2026 (March 2026)
$861.1 million
$1.6 million
Data source: Company filings. Data as of July 24, 2026.
Foolish Take
A comparison between aerospace companies BWX Technologies and Archer Aviation is a contrast against a veteran versus a nascent business. Archer aspires to be the Tesla of electric aviation, offering investors an opportunity to get in early while its eVTOL tech is slowly finding customers.
Archer’s sudden sales in the past two quarters suggest it is finally finding its commercial footing. The company was selected as the official air taxi provider of the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, a sign that its revenue could continue to grow.
BWX Technologies’ revenue trend reveals rapidly rising year-over-year sales. Its $861.1 million in Q1 was a strong 26% increase over 2025 thanks to the explosive 121% growth of its commercial business to $283.6 million. The arrival of artificial intelligence has fueled a massive demand for electricity to fuel the thousands of computer servers required for AI. This has led to increased adoption of nuclear power as a solution, creating a large new market for BWX’s offerings.
Investing in Archer is a gamble on the future of eVTOL while BWX represents an investment in a solid company with a history of growing revenue and the AI boom as a tailwind.
Should you buy stock in BWX Technologies right now?
Before you buy stock in BWX Technologies, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and BWX Technologies wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $377,990!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,269,518!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 896% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 206% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
Robert Izquierdo has positions in Tesla. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends BWX Technologies and Tesla. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

BWX Technologies vs. Archer Aviation: What Do the Revenue Trends of These Aerospace and Defense Companies Tell Investors?

Key Points
Archer and Anduril have developed an autonomous VTOL platform that serves both commercial and defense needs.
New aircraft, Thunder and Halo, open up more opportunities for Archer that go beyond just air taxi services.
Shares of Archer Aviation (NYSE: ACHR) have been jumping recently after the company announced new aircraft stemming from its partnership with Anduril, a defense technology and autonomous systems company. It's a huge deal for Archer, an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) stock that has been in a tailspin for much of the year.
Archer's CEO is bullish on the opportunities this could unlock for the company. However, despite the positive news, the eVTOL stock is still down 37% year to date. Could now be a good time to buy it?
Where to invest $1,000 right now? Our analyst team just revealed what they believe are the 10 best stocks to buy right now, when you join Stock Advisor. See the stocks »
Archer unveils Thunder and Halo
Last week, Archer announced details around a new autonomous VTOL platform it had developed with Anduril, which can be used for both commercial and defense purposes. One of the new aircraft from the platform, Thunder, will provide speed, range, and payload that are necessary for defense applications, while also being cost-efficient. Archer expects Thunder's first flight to take place next year. A few days later, the company also unveiled Halo, which is the commercial variant that it developed with Anduril. Like Thunder, it will be autonomous and be able to take on heavy payloads. Archer has already been working on certifying its piloted eVTOL Midnight aircraft, which is designed for air taxi services.
In announcing the news, Archer CEO Adam Goldstein said, "This is the most sophisticated vertical lift aircraft platform ever developed--it's exactly what our customers need." The opportunities could be significant for Archer, particularly in defense, where demand can be high.
Is Archer's stock destined to soar higher?
Archer's stock rose by around 20% on the day that it announced Thunder and the program with Anduril.
The market remains hesitant, however, because while the opportunities are significant, so too are the risks and uncertainties. Archer's aircraft still requires certification, and until it begins manufacturing at scale, it'll be difficult to know just how long it may take for the business to become profitable, as it's a capital-intensive industry. Its losses have also been growing, totaling $743 million over the trailing 12 months.
The eVTOL stock may be a compelling option for growth investors to consider, but this is an investment that will clearly require a lot of patience, as it'll take time for Archer to generate any significant revenue and even longer before it has any hope of achieving profitability. But with its opportunities expanding in scope due to the new platform it has developed with Anduril, Archer's stock clearly has a lot of upside and room to grow.
Should you buy stock in Archer Aviation right now?
Before you buy stock in Archer Aviation, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Archer Aviation wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $377,990!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,269,518!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 896% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 206% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
*Stock Advisor returns as of July 27, 2026.
David Jagielski, CPA has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Archer Aviation's CEO Just Gave Investors Great News

Key Points
Archer Aviation is building a business around what amounts to air taxis.
The stock rallied after a new product release, but it is still down dramatically over the past year.
If you believe there's a long-term opportunity in air taxis, Archer Aviation's stock price decline could make it a buy.
Archer Aviation (NYSE: ACHR) is one of several companies looking to build a business around electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The stock was hot not too long ago, but has since cooled off dramatically as it is taking longer than Wall Street would like for the company to get off the ground. But it is making progress, and the stock's 50% pullback over the past year could be a buying opportunity for long-term investors.
How bad is Archer's drawdown?
Archer Aviation is a money-losing start-up, so it shouldn't be shocking that the stock is risky. In fact, only the most aggressive investors should probably even consider buying it. The volatility you are taking on by owning it has been on clear display over the past year, with the stock down around 50% over that span. That said, that pullback comes after a huge rally in late 2024, when eVTOL stocks were particularly popular on Wall Street. At one point, over the past three years, the stock was up 200%; now it is up just 15% over that span thanks to the current drawdown.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
Given Archer Aviation's still-early stage of development, it is hard to predict what the business is capable of in the long term. However, eVTOL aircraft are expected to be a revolutionary development in the aerospace industry. To simplify the concept, they are expected to be air taxis that quickly carry people and packages over short distances.
There could be more opportunities than there appear to be
The big story for Archer Aviation has been building a global air taxi business that carries people from place to place. Notably, it would allow customers to fly over traffic-congested cities. Civilian use is great, but it is highly regulated. It is taking longer than planned to obtain all the required approvals for the company's Midnight aircraft. The company is slowly moving forward, but Wall Street is clearly tired of waiting.
That said, the company is also working on military uses for its eVTOL technology. That doesn't require the same approvals and could open up a quicker path to revenues and profits. Archer Aviation's stock jumped after it showed off technology it created with military supplier Anduril, which it calls Thunder. Military applications could be the company's first substantial revenue opportunity, but this same technology also has many industrial applications.
Execution will be vital for Archer's success
It isn't easy to build an entirely new aircraft. Still, Archer Aviation is making steady progress, and it looks highly likely that it will eventually get its business off the ground. If you are a long-term investor and can handle owning a volatile stock, the massive price decline in the shares could be a second chance to jump aboard. Archer will need to execute extremely well, but given the recent development on the military side of the business, it is clearly doing just that (even if the process is taking longer than mercurial investors had hoped).
Should you buy stock in Archer Aviation right now?
Before you buy stock in Archer Aviation, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Archer Aviation wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $377,990!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,269,518!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 896% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 206% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
Reuben Gregg Brewer has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Archer Aviation Has Fallen 50% and Could Be a Long-Term Buying Opportunity

Key Points
Archer Aviation is moving toward FAA certification for its Midnight aircraft with heavy backing from major airline and defense partners.
Intuitive Machines has established itself as a critical lunar infrastructure provider for NASA and the growing space economy.
Which high-growth aerospace stock offers the best flight path for your portfolio in 2026?
The frontier of transportation is shifting from terrestrial roads to the skies and beyond. Investors looking for high growth often weigh Archer Aviation Inc (NYSE:ACHR) against Intuitive Machines Inc (NASDAQ:LUNR) to capture this next industrial wave.
Archer is pioneering electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft for urban air mobility. Intuitive Machines focuses on lunar landers and space infrastructure. Both operate in highly technical fields with long development timelines, making them speculative but potentially rewarding options for those watching the evolution of flight and exploration.
The case for Archer Aviation
Archer builds electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft for urban air mobility and plans to operate its own air-taxi networks. It is a high-profile player among industrial stocks moving toward electrification. Partners like United Airlines (NASDAQ:UAL) have placed conditional orders, though such customer concentration adds a layer of risk to the business.
For fiscal year 2025, Archer Aviation reported revenue of just $300,000. This early-stage revenue was accompanied by a net loss of approximately $618.2 million. This reflects a company still in its pre-commercial phase as it pursues aircraft type and production certification.
As of its December 2025 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio was roughly 0.1x. This ratio measures total debt, including short- and long-term obligations, against shareholders' equity, with a lower number indicating less reliance on borrowed money. Free cash flow was negative at $511.7 million, representing the cash remaining after operating and capital spending are covered.
The case for Intuitive Machines
Intuitive Machines provides lunar landers, spacecraft, and orbital network infrastructure for government and commercial clients. Its primary customer remains NASA, which utilizes its services for the Artemis program and data relay networks. The company also serves defense customers and recently expanded its satellite manufacturing capabilities through the acquisition of Lanteris.
In FY 2025, revenue reached approximately $210.1 million, which was a decrease from previous years (sales were $228 million in 2024). The company reported a net loss of nearly $83.3 million during this time, much narroweerr than 2024’s net loss of $284 million.
As of the December 2025 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio is roughly -0.5x, meaning total liabilities exceed shareholder equity. Free cash flow for FY 2025 was approximately negative $56 million, which represents the cash remaining after paying for operations and capital assets.
Risk profile comparison
Archer faces high dependence on regulatory certification for its Midnight aircraft, and any delays from the FAA would severely impede commercialization. The company has a history of operating losses and will likely need more capital, which could be difficult if market conditions sour. There is also intense competition in the air-taxi market from rivals such as Joby Aviation (NYSE:JOBY) and eHang Holdings (NASDAQ:EH)
Intuitive Machines is highly sensitive to government budget cycles, particularly funding for NASA and the Department of Defense. The integration of recent acquisitions also poses execution risks for the management team as it scales operations. Furthermore, spaceflight remains inherently risky, and a single launch failure or satellite defect could cause significant financial and reputational damage.
Valuation comparison
Archer Aviation carries a much higher P/S ratio given that it is earlier in its development. Neither has a Forward P/E for 2026 because neither business is expected to turn a profit.
Metric
Archer Aviation
Intuitive Machines
Forward P/E
n/a
n/a
P/S ratio
1,710x
4.95x
Valuation metrics sourced from Financial Modeling Prep (FMP) and may differ from other data providers.
Which stock would I buy in 2026?
The federal government created a framework in 2025 for real-world testing of eVTOL aircraft, a concrete step toward making Archer's vision a reality. Other countries, including Japan, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia, are developing similar regulatory frameworks. A lot still has to happen for Archer’s aircraft to get into the skies, but the notion that the nation's airspace is being regulated in a way that is holding back growth is one that has found favor among U.S. leadership.
Archer is taking steps to refurbish a small Los Angeles airport, Hawthorne, for use as its testing grounds and is working to scale up its manufacturing capabilities to eventually reach capacity for 50 planes a year. Execuitves at the business have an initial plan to focus on military and cargo uses for its plane, which would be an easier path to early revenue. Future estimates are speculative, but Wall Street analysts see Archer turning its first profit in 2030, with $2.3 billion in revenue, but a lot has to go right between now and then.
The major card Archer is holding is the purchase agreement with United Airlines to serve as taxis, extending the airline’s services. The contract isn’t guaranteed to be executed in full, however.
Intuitive Machines, meanwhile, are in one of the hottest newly emerging sectors, space. Intuitive Machines started its fiscal 2026 with the strongest quarter in its history, delivering record revenue of $187 million. Management says they have an order backlog of $1.1 billion, including $400 recent bookings in early 2026. NASA is moving toward a steady access to space flights and deliveries, too, which bodes well for the company’s longer-term sales. Revenue for fiscal 2026 is seen more than quadrupling to $952 million, with a narrower net loss of $66 million. Analysts expect the business to turn its first profit in 2028.
Each of these companies is an exciting pioneer in a new form of flight. Intuitive Machines seems to be stepping into its own this year with a spike in revenue, while Archer still has to see itself through its proving ground. For 2026, go with Intuitive Machines.
Should you buy stock in Archer Aviation right now?
Before you buy stock in Archer Aviation, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Archer Aviation wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $377,990!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,269,518!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 896% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 206% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
*Stock Advisor returns as of July 25, 2026.
Brendan Coffey has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Intuitive Machines. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Archer Aviation vs. Intuitive Machines: Is an Air or Space Pioneer the BetterBuy in 2026?

Key Points
Archer Aviation is pioneering the urban air mobility market with its Midnight aircraft and high-profile partnerships with United Airlines and Stellantis.
Ford Motor remains a global automotive powerhouse that is currently navigating a multi-billion dollar shift toward electric and hybrid vehicle platforms.
Should you bet on the disruptive potential of an aviation newcomer or the established scale of a legacy automaker reinventing its fleet?
Investors face a choice between the high-octane potential of Archer Aviation (NYSE:ACHR) and the seasoned stability of Ford Motor Co (NYSE:F). Deciding which stock is a better buy for 2026 requires balancing revolutionary technology against traditional manufacturing.
Archer Aviation is building the future of urban flight with its electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft. Ford Motor is reinventing its legacy business to dominate the growing electric vehicle market. While they operate in different sectors, both companies are competing for a place in the evolving global transportation landscape.
The case for Archer Aviation
Archer Aviation designs and develops electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft for urban air mobility, placing it among high-growth industrial stocks. It is working on its Midnight air taxi and the Thunder autonomous platform in collaboration with Anduril Industries. The company has a $1 billion conditional purchase agreement with United Airlines (NASDAQ:UAL), and customer concentration like this adds a layer of risk to the business.
In FY 2025, Archer Aviation reported revenue of $300,000. This early-stage revenue was accompanied by a net loss of approximately $618.2 million. This reflects a company still in its pre-commercial phase as it pursues aircraft type and production certification.
As of its December 2025 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio is roughly 0.1x. This ratio measures total debt, including short- and long-term obligations, against shareholders' equity, with a lower number indicating less reliance on borrowed money. Free cash flow was negative at $511.7 million, representing the cash remaining after operating and capital spending are covered.
The case for Ford Motor
Ford Motor sells a global fleet of cars, trucks, and commercial vehicles. It operates a massive global workforce of 166,000 employees and distributes vehicles through roughly 8,226 independently owned dealerships. The company is currently executing its Ford+ plan to transition toward a mix of gas, hybrid, and electric vehicles while utilizing a new technology partnership with Micron Technology Inc (NASDAQ:MU).
In FY 2025, revenue reached close to $174 billion, representing a year-over-year growth of under 1%. Despite the high sales, the company reported a net loss of nearly $8.2 billion for the year, a swing from 2024 net income of $5.9 billion. This indicates that the costs of production and strategic shifts currently exceed total sales revenue.
As of its December 2025 balance sheet, Ford Motor reported a debt-to-equity ratio of close to 4.7x, showing its total debt is higher than its shareholder equity. For FY 2025, free cash flow, which is the cash left over after accounting for capital investments, was negative $343 millon. By comparison, 2024 saw free cash flow of $6.7 billion.
Risk profile comparison
Archer Aviation has incurred cumulative net losses of approximately $2.3 billion and requires ongoing capital to fund its high-volume manufacturing ramp-up. The business is entirely dependent on securing FAA and international certifications, and any delays could prevent it from making sales. Furthermore, the company is involved in active litigation against its rival Joby Aviation (NYSE:JOBY), which could lead to distractions or unfavorable legal outcomes.
Ford Motor faces risks from production disruptions due to shortages of key components like lithium and cobalt. The company is also subject to significant costs from safety recalls and investigations by regulators such as the NHTSA. Finally, intense competition from companies like Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:TSLA) and General Motors Corp (NYSE:GM) creates constant pricing pressure as the company balances capital between gas engines and electric vehicle adoption.
Valuation comparison
Ford Motor appears significantly cheaper based on its Forward P/E and P/S ratio, whereas Archer Aviation carries a premium valuation.
Metric
Archer Aviation
Ford Motor
Forward P/E
n/a
8.6x
P/S ratio
1,710x
0.3x
Valuation metrics sourced from Financial Modeling Prep (FMP) and may differ from other data providers.
Which stock would I buy in 2026?
Comparing Ford and Archer Aviation is a discussion about a Jetson-like vision of the future with flying cars or a grounded realization that the automobile isn’t going anywhere, at least for a while.
Ford Motor has a lot going for it: the company has reported five consecutive years of revenue growth, even if it’s been slow, and it continues to demonstrate vehicle leadership positions in internal combustion engine, electric vehicle, and hybrid vehicles. Unlike other automakers that have many marques, Ford just offers Ford and Lincoln, its luxury line. It’s a simpler sell to consumers. While the company has faced headwinds with foreign currencies and tariffs, the business has reshored enough operations that it sees the 2026 tariff impact being lower than previously projected, at $1 billion. Still, $1 billion in tariffs isn’t terribly helpful for business or shareholders. That said, Wall Street sees another year of sales growth in fiscal 2026, to $175.6 billion, with net income returning at $4.8 billion.
Archer Aviation, meanwhile, is benefitting from a federal government-created framework in 2025 to allow for real-world testing of eVTOL aircraft, a concrete step toward making Archer's vision a reality. Japan, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia are other countries building similar regulatory frameworks. A lot still has to happen for Archer’s aircraft to get into the skies, but the notion that the nation's airspace is being regulated in a way that is holding back growth is one that has found favor.
Archer is taking steps to refurbish a Los Angeles airport to use as its testing grounds and is working to scale up its manufacturing capabilities to eventually reach capacity for 50 planes a year. Management has an initial plan to focus on military and cargo uses for its plane, which would be an easier path to early revenue. Future estimates are speculative, but Wall Street analysts see Archer turning its first profit in 2030, with $2.3 billion in revenue, but a lot has to go right between now and then.
The major card Archer is holding is the purchase agreement with United Airlines to serve as taxis, extending the airline’s services. The contract isn’t guaranteed to be executed in full, however.
Which stock is the better buy? Archer has great potential, but a lot has to go right in an industry that is known for high capital needs and cost pressures. Ford isn’t a growth stock, but it’s as close as too-big-to-fail as one can find in American industry. At a rock-bottom P/S ratio, Forbd is the stock to buy for the long-term.
Should you buy stock in Archer Aviation right now?
Before you buy stock in Archer Aviation, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Archer Aviation wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $377,990!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,269,518!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 896% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 206% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
*Stock Advisor returns as of July 25, 2026.
Brendan Coffey has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Micron Technology and Tesla. The Motley Fool recommends General Motors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Archer Aviation vs. Ford Motor: Are Electric Planes or Automobiles a Better Buy in 2026?

Key Points
Archer Aviation is moving toward the commercial launch of its Midnight aircraft with significant backing from major airlines and defense agencies.
Lucid Group continues to scale its luxury electric vehicle production, supported by a massive purchase agreement with the Government of Saudi Arabia.
Which of these high-growth transport pioneers offers a better potential path for long-term investors in 2026?
As transportation undergoes a radical shift toward electrification, investors are weighing the potential of flying taxis against luxury electric cars. Choosing between Archer Aviation (NYSE:ACHR) and Lucid Group (NASDAQ:LCID) involves balancing visionary technology with financial durability.
Archer Aviation focuses on urban air mobility, aiming to launch commercial air-taxi networks in major global hubs. Lucid competes in the premium automotive market, prioritizing industry-leading battery efficiency and high-end design. Both companies represent high-risk bets on the future of how people move, though they operate in different regulatory and manufacturing environments.
The case for Archer Aviation
Archer Aviation develops electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for commercial and military use. This growth among industrial stocks is anchored by an agreement with United Airlines Holdings (NASDAQ:UAL) providing for the conditional purchase of up to $1.0 billion in Midnight aircraft. The company also partners with the U.S. Air Force and Stellantis (NYSE:STLA) for manufacturing support.
In FY 2025, Archer Aviation reported revenue of $300,000. This early-stage revenue was accompanied by a net loss of approximately $618.2 million. This reflects a company still in its pre-commercial phase as it pursues aircraft type and production certification.
As of its December 2025 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio is roughly 0.1x. This ratio measures total debt, including short- and long-term obligations, against shareholders' equity, with a lower number indicating less reliance on borrowed money. Free cash flow was negative at $511.7 million, representing the cash remaining after operating and capital spending are covered.
The case for Lucid Group
Lucid Group manufactures luxury electric vehicles, including the Air sedan and the Gravity SUV, through direct-to-consumer channels. Its most significant customer relationship is with the government of Saudi Arabia, which has a 10-year agreement to purchase up to 100,000 vehicles. The company also works with Uber Technologies (NYSE:UBER) and Nuro to develop autonomous robotaxi fleets, though this customer concentration adds a layer of risk to its long-term outlook.
In FY 2025, revenue reached approximately $1.35 billion, which represents growth of more than 67% compared to the previous year. Despite this significant top-line growth, Lucid reported a net loss of roughly $3.7 billion, reflecting the high costs of automotive production and ongoing research and development at this stage.
According to the December 2025 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio is nearly 1.2x. This means the company uses slightly more debt than equity to fund its capital-intensive operations. Free cash flow was negative $3.8 billion for the fiscal year.
Risk profile comparison
Archer Aviation faces significant regulatory hurdles, as it depends entirely on the FAA and other agencies for aircraft certification. Delays in receiving these approvals for the Midnight aircraft could indefinitely postpone the start of commercial revenue. Additionally, the company must prove it can successfully scale high-volume manufacturing in Georgia without previous experience in mass production, while also navigating complex legal disputes with competitors like Joby Aviation (NYSE:JOBY).
Lucid struggles with financial instability and a high cash burn rate, which has led to litigation and market volatility. The company also faces operational risks from leadership changes and historical manufacturing delays at its Arizona and Saudi Arabian facilities. Competition from established automakers like Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:TSLA) or luxury brands such as Mercedes-Benz Group adds further pressure on sales, especially as high interest rates impact demand for premium vehicles.
Valuation comparison
Archer Aviation trades at a dramatically higher P/S ratio than Lucid, reflecting its extremely early stage of commercialization.
Metric
Archer Aviation
Lucid
Forward P/E
n/a
n/a
P/S ratio
1,890x
1.7x
Valuation metrics sourced from Financial Modeling Prep (FMP) and may differ from other data providers.
Which stock would I buy in 2026?
The federal government created the framework in 2025 for real-world testing of eVTOL aircraft, a concrete step toward making Archer's vision a reality. Japan, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia are other countries building similar regulatory frameworks. A lot still has to happen for Archer’s aircraft to get into the skies, but the notion that the nation's airspace is being regulated in a way that is holding back growth is one that has found favor.
Archer is taking steps to refurbish a small Los Angeles airport for use as its testing grounds and is working to scale up its manufacturing capabilities to eventually reach capacity for 50 planes a year. Management has an initial plan to focus on military and cargo uses for its plane, which would be an easier path to early revenue. Future estimates are speculative, but Wall Street analysts see Archer turning its first profit in 2030, with $2.3 billion in revenue, but a lot has to go right between now and then.
The major card Archer is holding is the purchase agreement with United Airlines to serve as taxis, extending the airline’s services. The contract isn’t guaranteed to be executed in full, however.
Meanwhile, Lucid has an agreement with Uber to provide 35,000 robotaxis, up from a previously announced 20,000, while Uber upped its investment in Lucid to $500 million from $350 million. The luxury EV maker said March orders jumped 144% from February this year, a bright light for the business, which still struggles with high cash burn. Still, sales gains are starting from a small base: its vehicle sales rate was just 43 units per day in 2025.
The Saudi agreement should pay dividends, with the company constructing a factory in the country that should ensure the government follows through on its orders. A focus on cutting operational costs should help, although Lucid is still expected to lose around $3.6 billion in fiscal 2026, while revenue grows about $600 million to $1.95 billion.
Both Archer and Lucid are EV pioneers in the early stage of their business plans. Archer’s price-to-sales is far too high to ignore at current prices, while Lucid’s very low P/S suggests it may be the better bet for 2026.
Should you buy stock in Archer Aviation right now?
Before you buy stock in Archer Aviation, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Archer Aviation wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $370,332!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,272,280!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 904% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 208% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
*Stock Advisor returns as of July 22, 2026.
Brendan Coffey has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Tesla and Uber Technologies. The Motley Fool recommends Stellantis. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Archer Aviation vs. Lucid: Which Electric Vehicle Stock Is a Better Buy in 2026?

Key Points
Archer and Anduril unveiled Thunder, an autonomous hybrid-electric VTOL.
The new platform could help Archer generate meaningful revenue before its civilian air taxi service begins.
The Archer-Anduril platform strengthens Archer's story, yet a certified Midnight remains central to its long-term success.
If you thought Archer Aviation (NYSE:ACHR) was only building flying taxis, you might want to think again.
On July 20, Archer and defense company Anduril unveiled an autonomous VTOL aircraft platform, with a defense variant, “Thunder", also introduced. Since late 2024, both companies have been jointly developing technology for the vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) sector. While “Thunder” is a defense variant, Archer says it will announce the platform’s first commercial customers later this week.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
The importance of this platform for Archer cannot be overstated. The company is not generating meaningful revenue, and Midnight, its flagship electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, still lacks FAA type certification. If, however, it can turn the Anduril platform into firm orders, it could create a path to meaningful revenue while Midnight continues working through the certification process.
Archer stock jumped roughly 20% on the news, which puts it roughly 30% lower on the year. If you’ve been waiting for a reason to buy this beaten-down aviation stock, let’s take a closer look to see if now is the time to jump in.
Image source: Archer Aviation.
A new path to revenue, but no firm orders yet
Archer Aviation, in a nutshell, is a frontrunner in the nascent eVTOL and urban mobility space. Its flagship aircraft, Midnight, is being engineered for short-distance urban air travel. In practice, this eVTOL could transform city commutes by replacing hour-long slogs through congested streets with a relatively peaceful 10-minute ride in a quiet electric aircraft.
As mentioned above, Midnight is not FAA-certified. That said, Archer has been moving steadily through the FAA’s rigorous regulatory process. In April, it became the first eVTOL company to close out Phase 3 of the FAA’s four-phase process. Archer is now working through the final phase, during which it will conduct formal testing and show that Midnight is airworthy for passengers.
Progress is encouraging, but it’s not money. And, right now, money is firmly top of mind for Archer investors. The company has strong liquidity -- about $1.8 billion available -- but cash burn has become hard to ignore. Quarterly, it’s ripping through about $180 million. That gives it a runway of about two and a half years, assuming that burn rate stays the same.
This is where the Archer-Anduril platform could be useful. Unlike the fully electric Midnight, the new aircraft uses a hybrid-electric powertrain, which means it can theoretically stay airborne longer and carry heavier loads. That could easily broaden Archer’s opportunities beyond short urban hops into other, more urgent markets, like defense and cargo. More importantly, Thunder (and other military variants) could reach deployment faster than Midnight, as military aircraft do not have to undergo the same FAA certification process as civilian passenger aircraft.
That, as CEO Adam Goldstein said, is the “beauty of the defense market.” Whether or not it translates into firm sales is yet to be seen. But the opportunity is encouraging, as it gives Archer a potential path to revenue while Midnight works through the regulatory process.
Does this make Archer a buy?
The Ancher-Anduril platform could help offset some of the eVTOL company’s near-term spending. But it does not fundamentally change the company’s long-term trajectory. Archer still needs to certify Midnight and build a viable air taxi service if it wants to grow into a profitable business.
For now, Archer remains a high-risk, high-reward stock best suited to investors who can tolerate volatility and uncertainty.
Should you buy stock in Archer Aviation right now?
Before you buy stock in Archer Aviation, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Archer Aviation wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $364,562!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,247,668!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 894% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 207% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
*Stock Advisor returns as of July 21, 2026.
Steven Porrello has positions in Archer Aviation. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Archer Aviation Inc.

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