A gold rush to the new era of aviation gathers pace with the unlikely collaboration of the global automobile manufacturers and eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and loading) developers.
Carmakers believe within the next ten years demand for eVTOL aircraft will be at such a level that they’ll be building the aircraft at high volume around the globe. A number of the leading eVTOl developers are being given cash investments as well as technology and advice on how to build at automotive scale. Let’s take a look at a few of them.
Toyota has recently invested $390 million in the Californian start-up Joby Aviation, as well as advising on manufacturing processes. Joby has been able to decrease the footprint of the factory by 100,000 square feet, while at the same time increasing efficiency.
- Model: S4
- Expected Certification: 2024
- Occupants: 5
- Range: 150 miles
- Cruise Speed: 200 mph
Archer Aviation is another California startup, has partnered with Stellantis not only to gain access to its engineering, supply chain and manufacturing expertise, but also Steallantis’ battery technology—key to making its eVTOLs function.
- Model: Midnight
- Expected Certification: 2024
- Occupants: 5
- Range: 100 miles
- Cruise Speed: 150 mph
Eve Air Mobility, which is backed by jetmaker Embraer, is in bed with Porsche developing its manufacturing, supply chain and parts distribution. Andre Stein, co-CEO of Eve: “The UAM ecosystem is quickly evolving, and we can only achieve our goal if we spark enthusiasm for new ideas in manufacturing and supply chain areas.”
- Model: Eve
- Expected Certification: 2026
- Occupants: 5
- Range: 60 miles
- Cruise Speed: 115 mph
