Suzuki promises to launch flying taxis by 2025

The Japanese startup SkyDrive announced in 2020 that it plans to turn its first flying car prototype into a commercial model by 2023. Now, a new partnership could see their planes go on sale in even larger numbers. The company this week announced a partnership with Suzuki to develop a fleet of air taxis by 2025.

Dubbed SD-XX, the eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) aircraft will be unveiled at this year’s World Expo in Osaka. The companies say they will work together on the design of production and the selection of mass production systems, as well as on technological research and development. This vehicle has a relatively small footprint: just 4 metres long, 3.5 metres wide and 1.5 metres high. The two-seater has eight propellers, which allow it to fly at a speed of 20 kilometres, 500 metres above the ground.

Launched in 2018, SkyDrive is backed by technology companies including Toyota, Fujitsu and Panasonic. In addition to insurance companies, the company is also working closely with the Japanese government to realise its air taxi vision. In addition, the partnership will provide an opportunity for Suzuki, one of the country’s leading car and motorcycle manufacturers, to expand its own business.

Source: Robb Report