Electric Air Mobility, LLC SKYDRIVE eVTOL ©SkyDrive

Electric Air Mobility News Roundup – January 2025

There are more solutions than obstacles, Nicolas Zart

The electric trainer plan-maker Elfly is set to distribute its Electric BR23 Training Aircraft

AIN reports that Elfly Group, in partnership with H55, will distribute the all-electric Bristell B23 Energic light aircraft, developed with BRM Aero and electric propulsion specialists H55.

The B23 Energic offers a 60-minute flight autonomy with a 10-minute reserve, powered by a 100-kilowatt electric motor. It boasts a payload capacity of 418 pounds (190 kilograms), ideal for training purposes. Norway-based Elfly also aims to develop a fully electric seaplane.

In December, Elfly signed a memorandum of understanding for three B23 Energic aircraft, with options for three more, marking a significant milestone in sustainable aviation.

FAA and EASA Strengthen Collaboration on AAM

The FAA and EASA reaffirmed their commitment to working together on Advanced Air Mobility safety and innovation. At the 80th anniversary of ICAO’s Chicago Convention, outgoing FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker and EASA Executive Director Florian Guillermet signed a Declaration of Intent to enhance cooperation.

This collaboration focuses on:

  • Safety and risk management
  • Cybersecurity and emerging technologies
  • Innovation and sustainability
  • Global regulatory alignment

Volocopter Faces Insolvency but Maintains Operations

Following Lilium’s recent financial struggles, Volocopter now faces insolvency. The Karlsruhe Local Court in Germany has appointed Tobias Wahl as provisional administrator to guide the restructuring process.

While the situation is challenging, there’s potential for competitors or new market entrants to acquire Volocopter’s valuable technology. Wahl aims to secure funding by February to ensure the company’s market readiness.

Despite the setback, Volocopter continues operations, with investor interest likely to shape its future.

Volocopter eVTOL
Volocopter eVTOL

According to Wahl: “The company needs financing to take the final steps towards market entry. We will endeavor to develop a restructuring concept by the end of February and implement it with investors.” Stay tuned for more…

SkyDrive and Osaka Metro Unveil eVTOL Network

SkyDrive, in collaboration with Osaka Metro, revealed its Osaka Diamond Routes for eVTOL operations, connecting key hubs like Shin-Osaka/Umeda, Morinomiya, Tennoji/Abeno, and the Osaka Bay Area.

This initiative follows an August 2024 agreement and the creation of Osaka Metro’s eVTOL Promotion Office. The routes will debut in the Morinomiya area by 2028, with phased expansions planned through 2030 and beyond.

Electric Air Mobility, LLC SKYDRIVE eVTOL ©SkyDrive
Electric Air Mobility, LLC SKYDRIVE eVTOL ©SkyDrive

SkyDrive’s SD-05 eVTOL, a three-seater model, has proven attractive to vertiport operators, ensuring a promising future for this network.

Stay tuned for more…

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