SkyDrive has established a strategic partnership with Gujarat with the aim of combatting the various issues affecting the transportation sector in India.
Japanese-based eVTol aircraft manufacturer SkyDrive has entered a strategic partnership with JetSetGo Aviation Services to develop commercial eVTol routes, initially in the state of Gujarat and potentially in other locations across India.
JetSetGo, one of India’s largest private jet operators, has also agreed to pre-order 50 units of the eVTol aircraft which will be SkyDrive’s first commercially certified eVTol.
The agreement between SkyDrive and JetSetGo was facilitated by Suzuki Motor Corporation under a business and technical collaboration agreement previously signed by Suzuki and SkyDrive.
SkyDrive reports it has been exploring the development of the Indian market and potential use cases in India since 2022. SkyDrive established a strategic partnership with the Government of Gujarat in January 2024 with the aim of combatting the various issues affecting the transportation sector in India, including the large volume of greenhouse gas emissions caused by road traffic and other forms of transport, and also the long-standing issue of extreme urban congestion.
According to JetSetGo, the pre-order of 50 eVTol aircraft aligns with its long-term vision of providing efficient, eco-friendly travel solutions while tackling critical issues such as urban congestion and the environmental impact of current mobility solutions. By introducing eVTol aircraft to India, JetSetGo reckons to not only redefine the passenger experience but also set the standard for the next generation of air travel.
“Our partnership with JetSetGo, which will initially focus on opportunities in the State of Gujarat, marks a significant step forward for SkyDrive’s eVTol business in India,” said Tomohiro Fukuzawa, CEO of SkyDrive.
“Together, we aim to tackle some of India’s pressing mobility-related challenges, including the high level of transport-related emissions and the inefficiencies of urban traffic congestion.
Through this strategic partnership, JetSetGo and SkyDrive are coming together to introduce eVTol technology in India. Under the project, JetSetGo and SkyDrive will assess the potential for commercially viable eVTol operations centred around the wider Ahmedabad area, as well as possibilities for the further expansion of route networks to encompass other locations within Gujarat and further afield.
“By working with SkyDrive, we’re tackling real challenges like urban congestion and emissions, while also making air travel more efficient, accessible, and eco-friendly”
Together, both parties will explore market opportunities and assess the demand for eVTol services. The partnership sets the stage for the wider adoption of air taxis in India, transforming urban mobility with eco-friendly, fast, and accessible transportation solutions.
“At JetSetGo, we’ve always believed in pushing the envelope when it comes to aviation, bringing new, sustainable solutions to India. This partnership takes that belief to the next level,” said Kanika Tekriwal, CEO and co-founder JetSetGo.
“By working with SkyDrive, we’re tackling real challenges like urban congestion and emissions, while also making air travel more efficient, accessible, and eco-friendly. This isn’t just about the future of aviation, it’s about changing the way we travel in India. We can’t wait to see how this partnership reshapes the experience of flying, this time in the urban environment.”
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