Thursday, December 5, 2024
For a young company in the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector, forming strategic partnerships with key players in related industries is crucial. SkyDrive, the Japanese company, has had a successful year and is now strengthening its position with another important collaboration.
For many eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) companies, as well as traditional aviation players, the idea of air taxis becoming a regular part of urban mobility is no longer a far-off dream. Passenger-carrying eVTOLs are now here, ready to revolutionize air travel. With their all-electric propulsion systems, these aircraft offer zero-emission operations and remarkable versatility, available in various configurations to serve diverse applications.
SkyDrive’s latest venture follows this trend, focusing on how eVTOLs can enhance domestic tourism. The Japanese company’s SD-05 aircraft, for example, has the potential to transform sightseeing tours and create more efficient travel itineraries. SkyDrive has partnered with JTB, a leading local travel solutions provider, to explore how eVTOLs can boost tourism in regions across Japan, paving the way for innovative, aerial travel experiences.
Similarly, China is also embracing the tourism potential of eVTOLs, particularly autonomous models. eHang, the Chinese company behind the world’s only fully certified pilotless passenger eVTOL, has already delivered its first units to a local tourism operator, showcasing how these aircraft could reshape the tourism landscape.
SkyDrive, one of the prominent players in the eVTOL market, benefits from the backing of a major automotive giant. The SD-05, its flagship aircraft, will be produced at Suzuki’s facility in Iwata City, Shizuoka. SkyDrive has announced plans to start with an annual production capacity of 100 units at this site, which is considerably smaller compared to the targets of US-based eVTOL manufacturers like Joby and Archer, both aiming to produce around 500 units annually.
SkyDrive’s aspirations are global, with a notable focus on the Indian market, largely driven by its connection to Suzuki. The SD-05 was featured at the Gujarat Global Summit 2024 as part of the Maruti-Suzuki India Limited exhibit, further solidifying its presence in the region.
The company is also making strides in the US, with a new partnership with Greenville Downtown Airport and SAI Flight. As part of this collaboration, SAI Flight has committed to purchasing ten SkyDrive eVTOLs, marking a significant step toward bringing the innovative Japanese air taxi to South Carolina.
The SD-05 is designed as a smaller, lighter alternative to existing air taxis. This two-seat eVTOL features a 12-rotor configuration, optimizing it for short-distance travel. It is an advanced version of SkyDrive’s earlier SD-03, the compact eVTOL that initially put the company on the map.
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