VIDEO: The First Flight of Joby Aviation’s Flying Taxi

The American specialist in electric flying taxis, Joby Aviation, conducted a pilotless flight demonstration in Japan

Joby Aviation, a pioneer in electric flying taxis (eVTOL), has reached a significant milestone. The company conducted its first international demonstration flight. The test took place in Japan, over Shizuoka, with Mount Fuji as the backdrop. This event comes shortly after a new funding round of $500 million from Toyota, Joby’s partner since 2019.

The Japanese giant is closely collaborating with Joby to help design its manufacturing plant in the United States. In addition, it is assisting in developing production processes for the eVTOL market. Several engineers from the Japanese automaker have been mobilized for this collaboration. The goal is to strengthen the ties between the two companies in view of the industrialization of flying taxis.

A historic flight in Shizuoka

This weekend, Joby Aviation carried out a pilotless demonstration at Toyota’s technical center in Higashi-Fuji, in front of high-ranking officials. Akio Toyoda, President of Toyota, was present, along with representatives from the Japanese Civil Aviation Agency. The aircraft executed a vertical takeoff followed by horizontal flight. The operation was a success and proves the capability of this technology to make smooth and emission-free transportation.

Joby’s founder, JoeBen Bevirt, expressed his honor in showing Japan “a glimpse of the future of clean air mobility.” Echoing Toyota’s vision for more sustainable transport. This first flight abroad confirms the ambitions of Joby and Toyota. Ultimately, the collaboration aims to develop a network of flying taxis worldwide.

With Toyota’s financial and logistical support, Joby hopes to quickly secure the necessary certifications and launch mass production of its eVTOLs. This partnership aims to democratize eco-friendly air transportation by 2025.

Also read: Toyota invests $500 million in flying taxis!