Toyota, in collaboration with its partner Joby Aviation, has successfully completed the maiden test flight of their electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft in Japan. This achievement marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of urban mobility, blending Toyota’s manufacturing prowess with Joby’s aviation expertise. The eVTOL combines the capabilities of helicopters, drones, and small airplanes, creating a sustainable and innovative transportation solution.
Honda, renowned for its groundbreaking advancements in automotive engineering, has once again demonstrated its ability to redefine mobility with the development of its eVTOL (electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing) aircraft. This innovative venture underscores Honda’s commitment to sustainable transportation solutions and marks its strategic foray into the rapidly expanding field of urban air mobility (UAM).
EHang Holdings Limited (“EHang” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: EH), the world’s leading Urban Air Mobility (“UAM”) technology platform company, has announced a new Share Repurchase Program. Under this program, EHang may repurchase up to US$30 million of its American Depositary Shares (“ADSs”) or ordinary shares over the next 12 months.
In a strategic move to strengthen its presence in the emerging air taxi market, Stellantis has committed up to $370 million to support the production of air taxis by Archer Aviation. This substantial investment will specifically target the manufacturing of Archer’s Midnight aircraft, with production targets set at approximately 650 units annually.
Germany’s Volocopter had ambitious plans to introduce its air taxi service during the 2024 Paris Olympics. However, the much-anticipated debut didn’t go as planned. Despite meticulous preparations and high expectations, several unforeseen challenges delayed the project’s full rollout. The company had envisaged a series of vertiports throughout Paris, with a particularly striking stop planned on the River Seine.
South Korea’s automotive giant, Hyundai Motor, has made headlines with a groundbreaking test flight of its flying taxi in Indonesia. The test took place near Indonesia’s upcoming capital, Nusantara, showcasing a vehicle dubbed the OPPAV (Optionally Piloted Passenger and Passenger Aircraft). This innovative craft is the result of a collaborative effort with the Korea Aerospace Research Institute, integrating cutting-edge air mobility technologies that are set to redefine urban transportation.