Joby Aerography's Initial Aerial Demonstration in Japan, Indication of Strong Political Connections
In a significant stride towards sustainable aviation, Joby Aviation, a leading developer of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, conducted its first international demonstration flight in Japan, supported by a strategic partnership with Toyota. This historic event marks a crucial step in the advancement of eVTOL technology and the collaboration between the two companies.
The partnership, announced in November 2021, has seen Toyota invest $500 million in Joby Aviation, a move that has boosted the company's manufacturing capabilities and global expansion. This financial backing has enabled Joby to accelerate its technological advancements and move closer to commercialising its eVTOL air taxi services.
On November 2, 2024, Joby Aviation showcased its eVTOL technology in a demonstration flight above Shizuoka, offering a breathtaking backdrop of Mt. Fuji. The flight showcased the potential of Joby's eVTOL technology to revolutionise urban air mobility with sustainable and efficient flight capabilities.
Joby Aviation's eVTOL aircraft, capable of carrying a pilot and four passengers, has a top speed of around 320 km/h and a range of approximately 160 km. The aircraft, a part of Toyota's air mobility initiative with Joby Aviation, combines elements from helicopters, drones, and small aircraft, offering outstanding reliability, environmental performance (zero emissions), and quietness.
The flight, which took place at Toyota's Higashi-Fuji Technical Center in Susono City, Shizuoka, was preceded by test flights that began in late October. However, poor weather prevented the planned demonstration flight from going ahead at the November 2 event.
The collaboration between Toyota and Joby Aviation dates back to 2019, with the two companies cultivating a cooperative relationship for nearly seven years. Toyota supplies motor components developed for its hybrid technologies to Joby Aviation, and provides support in production engineering and the Toyota Production System (TPS).
Speaking about the partnership, JoeBen Bevirt, CEO of Joby Aviation, expressed his excitement, stating, "We are thrilled to be partnering with Toyota, a company with a rich history and a shared vision for the future of sustainable mobility." Akio Toyoda, Chairman of Toyota, also expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "Toyota aims to challenge the world and do what no one has done before in collaboration with Joby Aviation."
Hiroki Nakajima, Toyota Vice President, highlighted Toyota's vision for air mobility and their support for passionate individuals like JoeBen Bevirt. Nakajima added, "We are committed to supporting Joby Aviation in their mission to make eVTOL aircraft a reality and revolutionise urban air mobility."
The collaboration between Toyota and Joby Aviation not only demonstrates their commitment to sustainable aviation but also underscores their efforts to lead the electric air taxi revolution. With ongoing developments in certification, manufacturing, and international partnerships, Joby Aviation is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of urban air mobility. Future plans include commercialising eVTOL air taxi services in multiple regions, including the United Arab Emirates, where Joby has already begun piloted flights as part of its certification process.
The strategic partnership between Toyota and Joby Aviation, announced in November 2021, has not only bolstered Joby's financial resources, enabling technological advancements, but also expanded their business operations, as Toyota invested $500 million in the eVTOL developer. This collaboration in technology and finance is a significant stride towards revolutionizing urban air mobility with sustainable and efficient electric air taxi services.
