eVTOLs Coming Close to Take Off

eVTOL technology, or electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicle technology, has the potential to revolutionize the commuter experience in cities all over the world. eVTOL creators and innovators are imagining an accessible transport solution that would reduce urban traffic congestion and support the flow of passengers while also cutting carbon emissions. Combining the vertical take-off style of helicopters with the horizontal flight of airplanes, eVTOL seems ideal for intercity movements and have the potential to compete with car travel as a viable means of urban transportation if the price of such a trip can rival that of a taxi or an Uber.

eVOTLs have attracted the interest of many prominent investors with airlines already investing heavily into projects aiming to deliver flying taxis capable of point-to-point urban travel. We are currently seeing plans and partnerships unfolding all over the world that suggest that this potential transport revolution may happen soon. Just this Monday, United Airlines announced a $15 million investment in Eve Air Mobility marking a significant investment in flying taxis. Airbus is also partnering with Japanese helicopter operator Hiratagakuen to develop navigation technologies and advanced air mobility services in the Kansai, the country’s second most populated metropolitan area. In the UAE, Eve Holding, an electric aircraft company owned by Embraer and Falcon Aviation Services, a charter flight operator, are collaborating to make 35 flying taxis and working with local stakeholders and authorities to develop the urban air mobility ecosystem in the UAE. Meanwhile in South Korea, Jeju Island is preparing to introduce its own air taxi service in the next two years and plans to make urban air mobility (UAM) services a viable transport option.

Although eVOTLs are expected to be in operation in the next few years, regulations need to be created an agreed upon before they can be properly integrated into transport networks. Obviously, any delay here could slow the process significantly. Wishing governing bodies and authorities success in determining the right policies to ensure seamless integration.

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