Toyota-Backed SkyDrive SD-05 Achieves Stable 100 km/h Flight, Targeting 2028 Commercial Launch
SkyDrive's SD-05 multicopter eVTOL, backed by Toyota, has achieved stable flight at 100 km/h (62 mph), validating its fixed-wing-free design under real aerodynamic loads. The milestone advances Japan's JCAB type certification process, keeping the company's 2028 commercial service target within reach.
Highlights
- SkyDrive's SD-05 multicopter eVTOL, backed by Toyota, achieved stable flight at 100 km/h (62 mph) during recent test flights.
- The SD-05 uses a fixed-wing-free multicopter configuration, an uncommon design choice in the eVTOL industry that has now demonstrated high-speed aerodynamic reliability.
- Test flight data will be submitted to Japan's JCAB to advance the SD-05's type certification process.
- SkyDrive is targeting 2028 for the commercial launch of passenger services, aligning with Japan's government-backed Air Mobility Revolution initiative.
- Toyota's investment provides SkyDrive with a competitive edge in the global eVTOL market as the company works toward regulatory approval.
SkyDrive, a Japanese eVTOL startup backed by Toyota, has reached a significant milestone with its SD-05 multicopter, achieving stable flight at 100 km/h (approximately 62 mph) during recent test flights.
Fixed-Wing-Free Design Passes Aerodynamic Test
The SD-05 uses a multicopter configuration without fixed wings — a relatively uncommon choice in the eVTOL sector. The high-speed flight test demonstrated that the design can effectively handle aerodynamic loads encountered in real flight conditions, addressing concerns about its high-speed performance capabilities.
Advancing JCAB Type Certification
Data gathered from the test will feed directly into the type certification review process conducted by Japan's Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB). SkyDrive is actively working to meet JCAB's regulatory requirements, steadily building a body of validated flight data to support its application for formal commercial operating approval.
2028 Commercial Launch Target
SkyDrive plans to launch commercial passenger services with the SD-05 in 2028. This timeline aligns closely with the Japanese government's push to advance its "Air Mobility Revolution" initiative. However, whether the target can be met on schedule remains heavily dependent on regulatory review keeping pace with the company's technical development.
Toyota's financial backing provides SkyDrive with a strong foundation and has drawn considerable attention to the startup within the highly competitive global eVTOL market. As the SD-05 continues to accumulate flight test results, observers are closely watching whether Japan can secure an early lead in the race to commercialize air taxi services.
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