Zeva Aero, the previous creator of a disc-shaped personal eVTOL aircraft, has announced that it is now developing an aircraft on a pre-exisiting airframe in order to achieve the most efficient path to commercialization.

Zeva’s new aircraft, named the Argon, is based on a traditional fixed-wing Cessna 162 Skycatcher airframe. To convert the airframe to an eVTOL, Zeva will add supports that host vertical lift propellers to the tops of the wings, which will allow for electrically-powered take-off and landing.

With the vertical lift modifications to the aircraft, it is expected to have a 140mph cruise speed and a range of 330 nautical miles, with full electric vertical take-off and landing capability.

By using the pre-existing airframe rather than creating an entirely new aircraft, Zeva hopes to significantly reduce the time it will take to achieve aircraft certification as well the time it will take to reach the buyer market. The company plans to initially offer the Argon as an Experimental Amateur-Built kit, which it states represents almost 10% of the light aircraft fleet.

Zeva also hopes to maximize flight range while minimizing manufacturing, operational, and maintenance costs. The proven airframe should also provide increased safety as well as consumer confidence in the aircraft.

Although Zeva will now additionally focus on creating the Argon, development will continue on its other aircraft, the Z20. The Z20 has a disc shape, and uniquely, will use its own body shape in order to provide lift in forward flight. Zeva began prototype tests of this aircraft in 2022.

Through their products, Zeva hopes to capture the demand for private-ownership eVTOLs. Learn more about the aircraft on Zeva’s webite.

Why it’s important: This new product by Zeva indicates the company’s intentions to reach the market as soon as possible. By combining a proven and pre-certified airframe with new electric-lift capabilities, the company can provide a unique product that can reach buyers sooner rather than later. Additionally, by offering this aircraft as a kit, the company can save on manufacturing and delivery costs, while still providing an innovative eVTOL product to lead the market.

Source // Zeva Aero

Related:

• ZEVA Completes First eVTOL Test Flight (January 2022)
• ZEVA Aero Merges Assets With FabLab LLC (October 2022)

ZEVA, the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft startup, has successfully achieved its first untethered, powered, controlled flight test for its full-scale ZEVA ZERO flying wing airframe. The major milestone for the Tacoma-based startup was captured in the following video in rural Pierce County, Washington on Sunday, January 9th, 2022 as part of its rigorous test program to achieve FAA airworthiness certification.

The uncrewed ZEVA demonstration aircraft completed four flights, totaling more than four minutes of controlled hovering, simulated taxiing maneuvers at slow speeds, and limited vertical climb maneuvers. Its compact airframe is designed for a single pilot and is small enough to fit in a standard automobile parking space. The vehicle is projected to cruise at speeds of up to 160mph with a range of up to 50 miles, optimizing point-to-point travel while utilizing its eight zero-emission electric motor-driven propellers.

ZEVA experienced tremendous growth this year, with the addition of Gus Meyer as flight control engineer and several other key hires. The team completed more than 50 successful tethered flights, showcased the ZEVA ZERO aircraft at the Dubai Air Show in November, and was awarded a grant by Washington’s Joint Center for Aerospace Technology Innovation (JCATI) to work with Washington State University on ZEVA Aero’s aerodynamic configurations to optimize the vehicle’s thrust and controls. ZEVA has also worked with NASA in conjunction with its Urban Air Mobility Grand Challenge.

“The ZEVA team has done an incredible job with the design and manufacturing of this aircraft which was evidenced in this exceptionally smooth and successful first flight,” said Gus Meyer, the test pilot controlling the ZERO via a remote radio link. “This achievement is also a testament to the extraordinary talent and experience of the team, and the supportive partnerships that helped make this a reality.”

ZEVA will continue hover flight tests and advance to transition flight testing this spring to fine-tune the unique Superman-like trajectory of the aircraft design. The patent-pending design is expected to be available for pre-order for consumers for a $5,000 deposit as early as spring of this year, with an eventual price tag for the first production units estimated at under $250,000.

Why it matters: The importance of this milestone is best articulated by ZEVA CEO and Chairman Stephen Tibbits. “This is a huge inflection point for ZEVA as we join an exclusive set of proven flying eVTOL platforms, and a testament to the relentless hard work and ingenuity of our entire team over the past two and half years,” said Tibbitts. “We are dissecting our learnings from our critical first taxiing flight, which is a direct result of the support we’ve received from our investors and community, leading us to bring in additional talent to spearhead this historic moment. We are eager to continue to our next stage of hover flight testing on our road to certification and eventual autonomous flight allowing anyone, not just pilots, to access zero-emission point-to-point travel.”

ZEVA Aero, a Tacoma Washington-based aircraft developer, has officially merged its assets with those of FabLab LLC, its former incubator.

According to a recent press release, the merger gives ZEVA ownership and control of important assets such as 3D printers capable of printing carbon fiber composites, CNC machines, electronics lab equipment, machine tools, computing and network resources and much more. Additionally, ZEVA Aero will gain revenue from existing contract manufacturing jobs at FabLab, and will take over the leasehold of the facility.

Rendering of the ZEVA Zero at full scale

ZEVA Aero is developer of the ZEVA Zero, a disc-shaped ‘blended body’ eVTOL that uses the body of the aircraft itself as a lift surface. ZEVA’s goal with the Zero is to make point-to-point personal air transportation accessible for people throughout the U.S. According to ZEVA Founder Steve Tibbitts, the company hopes to ‘have a ZEVA Zero in every garage by 2040’. The Zero prototype recently held a place at Boeing’s GoFly competition, where Tibbitts discussed the aircraft’s near-future potential for medical response and military applications.

In another article highlighting the recent wildfires in California, ZEVA’s team mentioned the potential benefits of using the Zero in emergency situations, particularly where firefighting ground vehicles might get trapped by flames or be unable to access key areas of the emergency situation. According to ZEVA, the Zero could get responders onto the scene faster than any other form of transportation with a 160mph cruise speed, and could even be remotely piloted in order to rescue people in danger. Other uses mentioned by ZEVA include resupply and location tracking.

Why it’s important: Although ZEVA Aero is a small company as compared to the aviation giants currently entering aerial mobility (Airbus, Boeing, Bell, etc), it has an incredibly unique concept with some clear design advantages over more traditional aircraft. While ZEVA may not be able to compete with these large companies for the shared air taxi business, the Zero could have great success in private ownership or specialized applications such as emergency rescue, surveillance, and more.

New Images and information about  the Zeva Zero, a flying-saucer shaped  eVTOL, have been released. 

The Zeva Zero has been in development since the company’s founding in 2018. Unlike many eVTOLs, it features a disc-like structure, and is designed for a single passenger. When it transitions to horizontal flight, the entire body of the Zeva Zero tilts with its rotors, and the fuselage itself is used for lift:

How the Zeva Zero will transition from vertical to horizontal flight.

Along with these latest images of the Zeva Zero under construction, the team has also released more details on how the personal aircraft will work. Specifically, the team highlights how its design will enable stable flight for passengers, describes how the aircraft’s body will create lift, and clarifies its aim at the ‘solo commuter’ market segment. Unlike many other companies, Zeva is making its aircraft for private ownership, giving riders access to direct point-to-point transport.

The Zeva team is right on schedule, having announced the future release of its prototype this week as early as August 2018. Zeva is participating in the Boeing GoFly personal flight competition, which challenges teams to build functional prototypes for flight demonstrations in early 2020. Notably, Boeing GoFly is offering $2 million in prizes to teams that can create a ““safe, quiet, ultra-compact, near-VTOL personal flying device capable of flying 20 miles while carrying a single person”.

The Zeva team completed its first small scale prototype in January of this year:

Why it’s important: The Zeva Zero is one of the only eVTOLs in development that’s designed for private ownership rather than a shared air taxi service. It’s disc-like design is also extremely unique; making it one of the only eVTOLs that uses its body to create lift. These design choices may help Zeva carve out an important segment of the growing industry.

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Founded in April 2018, Zeva Aero has a pioneering design for the Zeva Zero eVTOL. The Zero has a unique flat design, and aims to carry passengers completely door to door.

While not many photos have been released of the Zeva, it features a tilting flight system. It can transition from a hover mode to a horizontal flight mode like other VTOL designs. But in the Zero, the passenger tilts with the wing. The coin-like structure of the Zero improves vertical drag as it rises, and it’s minimalistic approach reduces weight. However, the Zero only carries a single passenger.

The Zero comes with the self dubbed ‘SkyDock’ docking system. SkyDock allows the Zero to park itself on the side of buildings themselves. This would enable passengers to exit the Zero to walk directly into their office or home–almost like a door that can open to anywhere. It eliminates the need for last mile transportation, making the journey from A to B even more efficient.

The Zeva team is still in the design phase, but is looking for $1.5 million in funding. It will produce a prototype for the GoFly competition sponsored by Boeing in October 2019. The GoFly Competion specifically only allows near-VTOL aircraft that can fit an eight-and-a-half foot sphere.

Zeva is led by Steve Tibbitts, Managing Director of Incubator FabLab Tacoma. FabLab provides a workspace and prototyping tools for innovators, artists, and DIY enthusiasts. Previously, Tibbitts worked as a director at Integrated Device Technology Inc, and as a Design Manager at Fox Electronics. The rest of the Zeva team includes electrical and mechanical engineers as well as experts in 3D design, composites, and software.

Why it’s important: As VTOLs become more prevalent many companies will begin to replicate past designs. Especially in a new industry, continual re-iteration is crucial to achieve the best design. Zeva’s unique design and docking system rethinks the utility of existing VTOLS even while they are still in their testing stages.

ZeroAvia and Natilus have announced a strategic partnership to jointly develop hydrogen-electric engines for the Natilus Kona blended-wing-body (BWB) cargo aircraft. ZeroAvia’s ZA600 will be the sole hydrogen-electric propulsion source offered for the novel Kona short-haul feeder UAV, with the partnership focused on delivering zero-emission and lower cost operations.

Natilus recently validated the performance of the BWB design with flight testing of a quarter-scale Kona prototype aircraft, following three years of extensive wind-tunnel testing, while ZeroAvia has now conducted eight test flights of its prototype ZA600, 600kW engine in a 19-seat testbed aircraft.

ZeroAvia has already commenced flight testing of a 600kW prototype hydrogen-electric engine, which supports the development and certification of two initial engine classes: a 300-mile range in 9–19 seat aircraft by 2025, and up to 700-mile range in 40–80 seat aircraft by 2027. Based in the US and the UK, ZeroAvia has already secured experimental certificates for three prototype aircraft from the CAA and FAA.

In support of this effort, ZeroAvia also recently announced the creation of a hydrogen production facility at Birmingham Airport (BHX), featuring an on-site hydrogen production aircraft refueling facility, with the potential for multi-modal applications.  

Subject to funding, planning, and regulatory permissions being secured, the ambition would be to use the pioneering plant to support early flight demonstrations, and also refuel road vehicles, potentially including local buses. In advance of this, BHX has commenced talks with a major automotive company about trialing hydrogen buses and cars on its airfield.  

Why it’s important: The Natilus Kona, with its novel BWB design, offers increased volume for hydrogen storage, potentially transforming the air cargo delivery industry to one with low-cost, low carbon emissions, while also extending flight range. The partnership with ZeroAvia will leverage their expertise in hydrogen-electric powertrain technology with Natilus’ unique design to potentially create a scalable, long-range, and zero-emission air cargo delivery solution for the entire industry.

Related:

• Alaska Airlines Partners with ZeroAvia to Develop the World’s Largest Zero-Emission Aircraft
• ZeroAvia Achieves ‘Record-Breaking’ Hydrogen Fuel Cell Performance

Eve Air Mobility (“Eve”) (NYSE: EVEX, EVEXW), a leading player in the electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) industry, has made significant strides in its testing phase as it moves closer to achieving key program milestones. Eve’s commitment to a building-blocks approach helps ensure the continuous enhancement of its technology and eVTOL aircraft, allowing for the delivery of a highly effective product to the market.

Eve Air Mobility, a spinoff from EmbraerX, is creating a unique eVTOL aircraft focused on efficiency, safety, low-noise profiles, and ultimately on making short-distance air travel more acccessible.

Eve recently completed propeller tests on its propeller rig in Brazil, focusing on measuring aerodynamic performance and sound properties for modeling and development purposes. The configuration and characteristics of propeller blades, such as torsion, shape, and quantity, are crucial in defining the vibration, load, and sound profile of the eVTOL. Additionally, they impact the energy requirements of the aircraft. By testing multiple models, Eve’s engineers are striving to enhance efficiency, reduce sound footprint, and lower operating costs.

Above: Eve truck testing rig, used for testing sound profiles and performance

In another significant development, Eve has commenced testing its vertical lift rotors on a specially designed truck-mounted platform. This mobile testbed aims to evaluate the performance of the rotors during the transition phase of flight. Eve’s engineering team is actively gathering data on the aerodynamic characteristics of the rotors in forward flight. The eVTOL by Eve employs a lift and cruise configuration, utilizing dedicated rotors for vertical flight and fixed wings for cruising. This configuration prioritizes safety, efficiency, reliability, and certifiability while simultaneously reducing operational costs and additional maintenance and repair expenses.

Alice Altissimo, the Vice President of Program Management and Operation at Eve, expressed satisfaction with the company’s program development activities thus far. Altissimo stated, “We are very pleased with our program development activities to date and making very good progress as we move toward the selection of primary suppliers and finalize the definition of our aircraft systems architecture. We continue to invest, and our team is working hard with the goal of developing a mature aircraft for certification and entry into service in 2026.”

Anticipating progress in the near future, Eve expects to finalize the selection of primary equipment suppliers in the first half of 2023. Subsequently, the company plans to commence the assembly of its first full-scale eVTOL prototype in the second half of 2023, followed by an extensive test campaign in 2024. Eve’s eVTOL is scheduled to achieve certification and enter service by 2026.

Collaborating with various partners, Eve is dedicated to accelerating the Urban Air Mobility ecosystem. Benefiting from a start-up mindset and backed by Embraer S.A.’s over 50-year history of aerospace expertise, Eve is taking a holistic approach to advancing the UAM ecosystem. Alongside its advanced eVTOL project, Eve provides a comprehensive global services and support network, as well as a unique air traffic management solution.

Why it’s important: By continuously enhancing its eVTOL technology through rigorous testing and collaborating with key partners, Eve is bringing its product closer to certification and commercialization. These developments signify the Eve’s commitment creating an eVTOL aircraft that can be certified in all parts of the world, and can be used to create reliable and versatile aerial mobility networks. By bringing its immense wealth of expertise to this new industry, Embraer’s Eve has immense potential to create an advanced and high-functioning aircraft, as well as the networks and software systems to help operate it.

Source // sUAS News, AAM international

Related:

• Kenya Airways to Purchase 40 Embraer EVE eVTOL Aircraft (June 2022)
• Ascent Partners with Embraer for 100 Eve eVTOLs (August 2021)
• FlyBIS to Purchase 40 eVTOLs from Eve (December 2022)
• EVE, Embraer-backed eVTOL startup, now trading on NYSE (July 2022)

Through partnerships with business jet and private helicopter operators ASL Group and Air-Dynamic SA, Lilium has sold up to eleven more of its initial production aircraft to these major charter companies.

On May 24th, Lilium signed an agreement with business jet operator ASL Group for the delivery of six Lilium Pioneer Edition Jets. The agreement includes deposit payments to Lilium.

With these aircraft, ASL intends to create a sustainable, high-speed transportation network connecting major hubs across Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg, and Western Germany for its customers.

Philippe Bodson, owner and CEO of ASL Group said: “Our company is constantly seeking new ways to operate responsibly and contribute to a healthy future, both socially and ecologically. The Lilium Jet is a great opportunity to provide better value to our customers in a sustainable way. With zero operating emissions, vertical take-off landing capability, and a spacious premium cabin, Lilium represents the best option on the market.” 

ASL Group is one of Europe’s leading business jet management and operator companies, with offices and bases in most Belgian and Dutch airports. It currently manages and operates more than 45 aircraft, and is currently seeking new and innovative ways to serve its customers.

Air-Dynamic meanwhile, operates in Switzerland and Italy, and has signed an agreement for delivery of up to five Lilium Pioneer jets, which also included deposit payments.

Notably, Air-Dynamic already operates both helicopters and business jets in these areas with over 20 years of experience, making it a prime candidate for adoption of Lilium’s eVTOL jet. By owning and operating these aircraft, Air Dynamic SA hopes to capitalize on the high-end European business travel and tourism market.

Said Raffaella Meledandri, CEO of Air-Dynamic SA, “This partnership represents an important step for Air-Dynamic SA and the entire aviation industry. We are excited to work with Lilium to develop innovative and sustainable solutions for the future of aviation. The first project’s goal is to connect Lugano directly with Milan City Center and in parallel to establish a good connection in Italy for the most touristic destinations such as Lake Como and Capri.”

Currently, Air-Dynamic SA specializes in networked routes across Switzerland, Italy, Côte d’Azur, and French Alps. 

Why it’s important: Regional private jet and helicopter combination operators represent a prime and immediately applicable market for eVTOL aircraft with mid-range capabilities, such as the Lilium eVTOL. By purchasing these aircraft, operators can not only save on operating and maintenance costs, but can also offer their customers a unique and highly luxurious experience with this new kind of aircraft. Ultimately, these business models will also give Lilium and other eVTOL makers a chance to proof their viability and commercial feasibility, and build business towards expansion into more market segments.

Source // Lilium

Related:

• Lilium announces capital raise for up to $250 million (May 2023)
• Lilium and eVolare sign deal for up to 20 aircraft (December 2022)
• Lilium and Helity to Develop High Speed Electric Air Mobility Network in Southern Spain (August 2022)
• AAP Aviation to develop electric regional air mobility in Norway with the Lilium Jet (July 2022)
• Lilium Completes Transition from Hover to Winged Flight (June 2022)

Reliable Robotics has completed a series of flight tests in partnership with NASA to aid the FAA in the use of primary surveillance radar (PSR) data.

The tests were conducted on Reliable’s modified Cessna Grand Caravan at Travis Air Force Base and successfully demonstrated an autonomous taxi, takeoff, and landing. Reliable is currently developing an FAA STC for its remote pilot technology on the Caravan, but intends to make it available for other aircraft types in the future.

The tests were intended to demonstrate a high-precision, high-integrity navigation system that enables automatic takeoff and landing. More specifically demonstrating to the FAA their detect and avoid (DAA) capabilities. This technology helps to ensure safe distances between aircraft and minimize the risk of mid-air collisions. Successful demonstration of this software is on of the key hurdles needed to realize fully autonomous/remote pilot operations.

The test conducted with NASA involved feeding live radar data into a NASA facility and subjecting two aircraft to multiple encounter scenarios. These scenarios simulated approaching each other from different angles and speeds, simulating unintended near misses. Throughout the test, data from the FAA and DoD surveillance radar system was collected, alongside high-precision position information gathered onboard the aircraft. This data was subsequently cross-compared to evaluate the effectiveness of radar systems in ensuring separation.

Assuming successful outcomes, the end goal is to publish a formal paper that establishes the suitability of ground surveillance radar equipment as a vital component in solving the detect-and-avoid problem. This research holds promise for further enhancing aviation safety and paving the way for more advanced automation in the skies.

“Everything went the way that we expected,” said Robert Rose, CEO of Reliable Robotics. “There’s still a lot more work that needs to be done, but we were excited to kick this work off.”

Why it matters: Detect and Avoid software and collaboration with the FAA in the development of collision avoidance technologies will be of paramount importance for the long term success of fully autonomous aerial mobility platforms. Reliable’s work and eventual STC for the Cessna Caravan are steps in the right direct towards making remote piloting a reality.

Vertical Aerospace just announced that South Korean mobility technology company, Kakao Mobility, has pre-ordered up to 50 of Vertical’s VX4 aircraft, adding South Korea to Vertical’s list of customer launch markets.

Kakao Mobility, the largest Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) platform in South Korea with more than 30 million registered users, is the mobility subsidiary of South Korean internet giant, Kakao Corporation. Kakao Mobility runs the country’s most popular taxi-hailing app, Kakao T, providing taxi-hailing, designated driver booking, parking space search, and Kakao Navi app providing real-time traffic information services.

Vertical and Kakao Mobility will establish a Joint Working Group (JWG) to drive the commercialization of AAM services in South Korea, including the exploration of network and fleet planning, infrastructure requirements, regulatory development, and consumer awareness of eVTOL mobility solutions.

This JWG builds on Vertical’s existing consortium partnership with Kakao Mobility, LG Uplus, GS E&C, and the continued engagement with Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, for the K-UAM Grand Challenge (K-UAM GC).

Stephen Fitzpatrick, Vertical’s Founder and CEO, said “We are delighted to be partnering with Kakao Mobility. With its over 30 million registered users, Kakao Mobility is the go-to choice to ‘hail a ride’ and with our partnership, we look forward to people across South Korea being able to fly in a VX4 in the years to come. We are thrilled to be working together to make our joint vision a reality’.”

Alex Ryu, CEO of Kakao Mobility commented, “Kakao Mobility is the leading mobility platform and in an AI-enabled world with needs for faster, eco-friendly means of moving, we understand that UAM will be a game-changer in the near future. We are excited to take part in Vertical Aerospace’s mission to launch its VX4 globally and to bring an UAM service to Korean market. We will be expanding our business not only on the ground but to the sky through this partnership. As a consolidated mobility platform, Kakao Mobility will develop the “De Facto Standard” for UAM services. We look forward to collaborating closely to complete the K-UAM Grand Challenge successfully and into commercialization shortly after K-UAM GC.”

Vertical already has strong ties to South Korea with Hanwha, a key partner for the VX4 certification aircraft. Vertical is leveraging Hanwha’s four decades of industrial expertise to collaborate on the development and supply of actuator systems for the VX4.

Related:

• Vertical Aerospace moves towards Certification with VX4 eVTOL Aircraft
• Marubeni Pre-Orders 25 Aircraft from Vertical Aerospace, Conducts Proof of Concept Operations in Osaka
• Vertical to Partner with Babcock for Development of eVTOL EMS Applications

Why it’s important: South Korea is one of the largest economies in the world and is home to globally leading technology companies. Seoul, as well as other regions including Busan, is expected to have a significant Urban Air Mobility (UAM) market potential. The agreement with Kakao Mobility marks Vertical’s first partnership with a mobility technology company, enabling Vertical to leverage their existing customer base and vehicle network to create a seamless air-to-ground passenger journey and UAM ecosystem in the country.

Blade Air Mobility announced today that they have entered into an agreement with Newport Helipad to operate and revitalize the Newport Helistop, denoted 91NJ, located in Newport, Jersey City, New Jersey. This area is one of the largest and most successful mixed-use communities on the Hudson River waterfront, and the agreement is subject to the execution of definitive documentation.

Blade plans to manage and operate the Helistop on behalf of Newport for both Blade flights and third-party operations. The Helistop is located on the Hudson River waterfront, approximately 3,800 feet from Manhattan. “All large communities will need an urban air mobility strategy to bolster their attractiveness to corporations and residents alike in an increasingly competitive market,” said Nate Alexander, Blade’s Senior Director, Rotorcraft Operations. Notably, this agreement will help to demonstrate the proper processes and working relationships required to safely grow urban air mobility in the greater New York City metropolitan area using conventional aircraft today, while preparing for the deployment of aerial mobility aircraft in the future.

Under the agreement, Blade will begin a pilot program for charter flights and explore the viability of the first-ever scheduled, by-the-seat service between the Helistop and local New York City area airports and heliports; the program will provide a convenient travel option for commuters, particularly for Newport tenants and employees of major banks and corporations that maintain large office presences around the Helistop. A flight from the Helistop to JFK Airport will take approximately 5 minutes versus up to 2 ½ hours by car.

In an effort to mitigate any potential noise impact on the neighboring communities, only helicopter flights for public transportation or emergency services will be permitted at the Helistop. Tourist flights, as well as helicopter operators who violate the New York City Economic Development Corporation’s designated noise abatement routing for tourist flights along the New Jersey and New York City Hudson River corridor, will not be allowed to utilize the Helistop.

The agreement will also provide Blade with the opportunity to construct an exclusive-use, Blade branded terminal at the Helistop to facilitate safe and efficient operations for Blade flights and provide lounge amenities for Blade fliers.

Why it’s important: This agreement is the first of its kind in 13 years in the NYC area, as opening new or reopening existing heliports and vertical aircraft operation locations requires a large amount of coordination and approvals. BLADE’s ability to successfully execute this deal serves as a case study for future expansions in the area. Further, it underscores the types of working relationships needed for continuing growth as additional routes come to fruition for advanced aerial mobility deployment and the continuing commercialization of last-mile urban transportation, thereby relieving road congestion and reducing carbon emissions.

Doroni Aerospace, Inc., a startup in the aerial mobility industry, is making an innovative 2-seater eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft). The company recently announced the launch of its Series A Reg D funding round, providing investors with an online platform to participate in this investment opportunity. This marks a significant milestone for Doroni as it propels the development and growth of its cutting-edge technology.

Doroni Aerospace has witnessed tremendous success over the past six months, including the completion of an impressive 53 successful test flights and raising $3.6 million through equity crowdfunding from over 1,900 investors. The latest Reg D investment round plays a crucial role in the company’s journey towards obtaining official certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Doroni plans to initiate deliveries of the first units sold in the second half of 2025.

With the closing of the Series A Reg D Offering, Doroni Aerospace is embarking on the next phase of its mission to change personal mobility and transportation. This development ushers in a new chapter for the company, enabling it to further develop its mobility platform, attract new partners and investors, and scale its operations.

“This offering represents a significant milestone in our endeavor to revolutionize the aviation and personal mobility industry. By pushing the boundaries of technology, we aim to provide our customers with unparalleled convenience and sustainability, setting new benchmarks for the transportation segment,” said Yaakov Werdiger, COO of Doroni Aerospace.

Despite raising less than the industry standard funding thus far, Doroni Aerospace has achieved remarkable success in its operations. According to the company, this achievement is a testament to the team’s agility and strategy. Consequently, Doroni now positions itself favorably in the eyes of potential investors, showcasing its ability to maximize resources and deliver on investment resources.

Doroni Aerospace’s flagship product, the H1, a two-seater personal eVTOL, is currently available for pre-order and has already begun receiving deposits. With an estimated starting retail price of $250,000, the H1 will offer individuals a unique opportunity to own, fly, and store their own eVTOL in a standard two-car garage. The aircraft qualifies for the light sport category, allowing owner operators to complete a 20-hour training course provided by the company, in order to begin flying.

“We are thrilled by the extraordinary success of our flight tests, which have truly demonstrated the immense capabilities of the Doroni eVTOL. We are resolute in our mission to revolutionize personal transportation, creating innovative and cutting-edge solutions that will reshape our interactions with space and beyond,” said Doron Merdinger, CEO, and Founder of Doroni Aerospace.

Doroni Aerospace is also receiving the support of Space Florida, a state agency dedicated to preserving Florida’s leading position in the global aerospace industry. Space Florida is actively assisting Doroni in expanding its operations by providing land, facilities, and tooling. Tony Gannon, VP Research & Innovation, and Matt Chesnut, VP Business and Economic Development, serve as close collaborators and fervent supporters of Doroni’s vision.

Why it’s important: Doroni’s innovative 2-seater eVTOL and its success in test flights and fundraising exemplify the potential of the private-ownership segment for electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft. By providing accredited investors with an opportunity to participate in Doroni’s growth, the new investment not only signifies a major milestone for the company but also showcases the viability and attractiveness of the private eVTOL market. According to the company, Doroni’s advancements in technology, coupled with its commitment to sustainability and convenience, can inspire other companies in the small-aircraft aerial mobility sector. The success of Doroni Aerospace in revolutionizing personal mobility further accelerates the overall progress and development of the aerial mobility industry, bringing us closer to a future where flying cars and sustainable transportation options become a reality worldwide.

Source // Globe Newswire, Doroni

In a groundbreaking move towards the future of aerial mobility, the United States announced on May 16th the formation of a dedicated team tasked with establishing a comprehensive national strategy for the integration of flying air taxis into the transportation ecosystem. This initiative ultimately aims to transform the way many people commute, reducing congestion and providing faster and more efficient transportation options.

The new team, composed of experts from NASA, the Transportation Security Administration, the Federal Aviation Administration and the Federal Communications Commission, will collaborate closely with other government agencies, industry leaders, and stakeholders to define the regulatory framework, safety standards, infrastructure requirements, and operational guidelines for the deployment of eVTOL air taxis across the United States.

As reported in the press release issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation, this initiative aligns with the government’s vision of fostering innovation and emerging technologies to address the challenges of urban transportation. By bringing together key players from both the public and private sectors, the team will work towards shaping a sustainable and accessible aerial mobility ecosystem.

Through this announcement, the DOT has stated that it’s first goal is to work with the public and stakeholders to understand “ the critical issues of importance in drafting a national AAM strategy”. In particular, they seek to develop a multi-step plan for the 2 year, 4-8 year, and 8 year plus marks to overcome barriers and assist in integrating this new mode of transportation into existing networks and cities.

This announcement follows several headlines from major airlines like American, United, and Delta, who have announced partnerships to begin operating these new kinds of urban eVTOL aircraft between city centers and airports. Additionally, the U.S government has also already made efforts in partnership with companies like Joby Aviation to help these new aircraft reach certification. Learn more about these partnerships on TransportUP.com.

Above: Image from Urban Airspace Mapping program chosen by NASA

Why it’s important: The successful integration of air taxis into existing transportation networks will require collaborative efforts from all stakeholders involved. By creating a cohesive national strategy, the U.S. can to streamline the regulatory processes, ensure public safety, and maximize the potential benefits of this emerging technology sooner rather than later.

Although programs have already been established in several departments of the U.S government like the FAA and NASA, this new team announces a overall coordinated team on the national level to begin implementing this technology. The formation of the signals the strength of the Biden Administration’s belief in the potential of this technology.

Related:

• Joby Completes Second Stage of Certification Process (February 2023)
• Archer and United to Fly eVTOL Route in Chicago Starting in 2025 (March 2023)
• American Airlines Solidifies Delivery Slots for Vertical Aerospace eVTOL Aircraft (July 2022)
• FAA Releases New Concept of Operations for Aerial Mobility (May 2023

Source // Reuters, Avfoil