SkyDrive SD-05 eVTOL The SkyDrive SD-05 eVTOL is a relatively new eVTOL that is currently under development in Japan. In fact it is part of the Toyota set-up with major backing from the mobility giant. Just last month the company conducted several demonstrations spanning almost a week with an SD-05 prototype in the Tokyo Bay area. Just recently Japan's regulatory body the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) green-lit SkyDrive's certification plan.
JCAB on March 9th approved the general framework and plan that SkyDrive has that will guide it on the certification path. The company is targeting 2028 for their launch of commercial operations. It is envisioned that once it gets to commercial service it will be utilized primarily in the air taxi role. Carrying three people onboard, the pilot and two passengers, the SD-05 should be able to perform on short urban-setting runs. The range on the craft is anticipated to be 22 nautical miles.
“The agreement, which shortens the projected timeline for compliance activities and reduces future risk, shows that we are on the right track for certification of our aircraft with the JCAB and FAA. Only a very limited number of players worldwide have reached this stage in the type certification process.”
While carrying two passengers and the pilot the cruise speed of the is just 54-knots. Given the limited range of the new SkyDrive SD-05 other applications for the craft will likely be limited to excursion, sightseeing and even medical for transport to hospitals in urban areas. The eVTOL is borne on 12 rotors on a grid structure on top the aircraft. For more information: SkyDrive www.skydrive.co.jp ***
