SkyDrive has been chosen by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) for the Next-Generation Air Mobility Field of the Small and Medium Enterprise Innovation Promotion Project (SBIR Phase3).
SkyDrive has been granted around 12.4 billion yen (approximately $82.7 million) which will support the development of innovative technologies aimed at enhancing future social implementation, including reducing traffic congestion and lower emissions.
The SBIR program is a Japanese government initiative to grant startup companies working on advanced technologies that address societal challenges. The program supports research and development projects that have high potential for growth and positive impact on society.
With the support of the Japanese government through the SBIR program, SkyDrive is going to develop the aircraft to fully satisfy market demands with the specification required from operators and be mass-produced, and also to obtain Type Certification for commercial operation in the next five years.
The SBIR program enables SkyDrive to accelerate its research and development efforts, focusing on improving the performance, safety, and efficiency of its eVTOL aircraft. It will also support the development of new technologies and systems necessary for the successful deployment of eVTOLs in Japan and beyond.
SkyDrive is developing a multicopter-type eVTOL aircraft with two passengers and a pilot. The aircraft has a maximum takeoff weight of less than 1.5 tons and is designed to be safe, quiet, and environmentally friendly. There are approximately 10 eVTOL companies, including SkyDrive, that have begun type certification process for their eVTOLs presently. It features a unique patent pending rotor frame technology that allows it to land on rooftops, making it suitable and accessible aircraft for family, friends, and commuters with an affordable operating cost per person.
