Designing zero carbon manufacturing facility for electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVOTL)

BETA Technologies Aircraft Fabrication Plant

When BETA Technologies needed a large-scale fabrication facility to produce electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, they turned to our team to help. In collaboration with design architect Vermont Studios—comprised of Studio III Architecture and Scott + Partners Architecture—we delivered an all-electric, zero-fossil fuel fabrication plant designed to achieve net zero energy for core-and-shell loads.

Located adjacent to Burlington International Airport, the manufacturing and office facility prioritizes energy efficiency through all-electric systems, a high-performance envelope, rooftop solar photovoltaics, rainwater collection and reuse, and a geothermal well system integrated with energy recovery ventilation. The 170-foot (52-metre) wide, long-span steel-framed manufacturing space opens directly to the tarmac through retractable polycarbonate and glass doors, and a central skylight brings natural light deep into the manufacturing areas, connecting BETA’s team to the changing skies above.

In addition to a facility that supports their manufacturing needs, BETA also wanted the project to enhance the surrounding natural and community context. The site offers community-focused green spaces that invite public engagement.