SkyDrive Teams Up With Six Singapore Tech Firms On eVTOL

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 30 (Bernama) -- Japanese electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft developer, SkyDrive Inc has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with six Singapore-based technology companies for joint research, development and technical validation of key eVTOL components.

In a statement, the company said the MOU, signed at the Singapore Week of Innovation and Technology (SWITCH), involves Accuron Technologies, Heron Airbridge, HOPE Technik, KVI, Neo Aeronautics and Volt14 Solutions.

“SkyDrive’s plans to establish R&D partnerships in Singapore reflect our strength as a leading aerospace hub,” said Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) Senior Vice President and Head of Global Enterprises, Marcus Dass.

Meanwhile, Enterprise Singapore Executive Director of Manufacturing, Ong Shin Rong said the collaborations reflect the capabilities of local companies as technology and supply chain partners, adding that it also opens opportunities for the companies to participate in emerging global value chains and pursue new areas of growth.

The partnership will focus on technologies such as aircraft weight reduction, next-generation batteries and flight operations management, as well as potential testing environments. SkyDrive said the collaboration covers technical validation and research and development (R&D) only.

Accuron Technologies will contribute its expertise in metal additive manufacturing to produce lightweight, high-safety metal components. Heron Airbridge will carry out technical validation of real-time airspace monitoring and traffic management for multiple aircraft.

HOPE Technik will provide rapid prototyping for experimental components and aircraft, while KVI will evaluate battery control software that enables safe, rapid charging at the cell and pack level.

Neo Aeronautics will explore operational testing, regulatory certification and regional business development, while Volt14 Solutions will develop high-capacity silicon-based battery cells and lightweight battery pack designs.

SkyDrive and its partners will hold regular technical exchanges as they work towards definitive agreements for specific joint research projects and feasibility studies. The company describes Southeast Asia as a key strategic market where demand for eVTOL aircraft is growing rapidly.

-- BERNAMA