Joby Aviation (JOBY) vs Archer Aviation (ACHR): A Quick Overview
| Feature | Joby Aviation | Archer Aviation |
|---|---|---|
| Market Cap | $3.3B | $1B |
| Founded | 2005 | 2018 |
| Employees | 700+ | 200+ |
| Cash on Balance Sheet | $1.2B | $700M |
Joby’s long-standing presence in the industry and stronger financial position give it a distinct advantage over Archer, which is still in the early stages of development.
Market Share
Neither Joby nor Archer currently dominates the market, as the eVTOL industry is still in its infancy. However, Joby’s early entry in 2005 provided it with a head start in research and development. The company has also accumulated significant cash reserves to sustain its operations through the industry's initial unprofitable phases.
Winner: Joby Aviation
Business Model
Both Joby and Archer plan to sell eVTOLs to airlines and other organizations, while also offering air taxi services. Joby’s partnership with Uber gives it an edge in urban air mobility, whereas Archer has garnered attention through its $1 billion deal with United Airlines.
Winner: Joby Aviation
Electric Aircraft Design
| Feature | Joby eVTOL | Archer Maker |
|---|---|---|
| Max Passengers | 4 | 2 |
| Max Speed | 200 mph | 150 mph |
| Range | 150 miles | 60 miles |
Joby’s eVTOL offers superior speed, range, and capacity, reflecting its decade-long investment in R&D. Archer, while promising, still has ground to cover in terms of design.
Winner: Joby Aviation
Pre-Orders and Partnerships
Joby’s collaboration with Uber positions it well in the air taxi market, while Archer’s partnership with United Airlines signals strong industry support. Both deals highlight the growing demand for eVTOL solutions.
Winner: Archer Aviation
Management Team
Joby’s founder and CEO, JoeBen Bevirt, brings nearly two decades of experience and a clear vision for urban air mobility. Archer’s CEO, Adam Goldstein, has faced leadership challenges, including the departure of several key executives in 2022.
Winner: Joby Aviation
Fundamental Analysis
Joby Aviation’s stronger balance sheet and larger market cap make it a more stable choice for long-term investors. However, the competitive landscape remains uncertain, with other entrants potentially disrupting the market.
Winner: Joby Aviation
Final Thoughts
While both Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation hold promise in the burgeoning eVTOL industry, Joby emerges as the stronger candidate in terms of market readiness, product design, and financial stability. Archer’s partnerships and potential for growth make it an intriguing option, but it still lags behind Joby in several key areas.
If you’re looking for a more established player with a solid track record, Joby Aviation is the clear choice. However, those willing to take on higher risk for potentially greater rewards might consider Archer Aviation.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your risk tolerance and investment goals. Whichever you choose, the eVTOL sector is poised for significant growth, making it an exciting space for forward-thinking investors.