DAILY INNOVATION BRIEF by Maryanne Kane, Journalist
D A ILY INNOVATION BRIEF By Journalists Edward Kane & Marya nne Kane SUZUKI-SKYDRIVE eVTOL IS IN DEMAND Source: SkyDrive Japanese auto & motorcycle manufacturer Suzuki and Japan-based eVTOL company SkyDrive are developing a flying taxi that's pulling in lots of global customer orders. Here's what we know: Suzuki has formed a 100%-owned subsidiary with SkyDrive to manufacture their eVTOL flying taxi SD-05 in Japan starting in spring 2024 Orders for this 3-seat, all-electric, vertical takeoff and landing air taxi are pouring in: 110 orders from Vietnam, 50 orders from South Korea and 5 vehicles ordered by a South Carolina-based company Vehicle is called SD-05 and has a patented rotor design Carries 3 people, including the pilot Maximum weight it can carry is 3100 pounds Range is 9 miles Designed for short-haul trips as a flying taxi Top speed is 62 mph Operation