The successful completion of Joby’s first international test flight marks an important turning point for Toyota Motor Corporation and Joby Aviation, Inc., a business developing electric air taxis for commercial passenger transport. With the famous Mount Fuji serving as a beautiful backdrop, the flight was conducted at Toyota’s Higashi-Fuji Technical Center in Shizuoka, Japan. With this event, their common goal of silent, emissions-free air travel took a big step forward.
Years of partnership between the two businesses were reflected in the display, which showed the low noise impact of Joby’s electric aircraft. Since the collaboration started over seven years ago, Toyota has supported Joby’s development efforts with its vast automobile manufacturing experience and modern technology. To provide their expertise to the project, Toyota’s engineers have been working closely with Joby’s team in California, and this year, their dedication to Joby’s success was further shown. Toyota announced a long-term contract in 2023 to provide Joby with essential items for manufacturing its aircraft, such as control and engine parts that will enable the electric air taxis to function.
JoeBen Bevirt, the founder and CEO of Joby, said he was thrilled about their partnership and their shared advancement toward efficient, clean air travel for daily use. “As we work to bring peaceful, clean air travel to cities worldwide, this first worldwide flight is an important goal,” Bevirt added. “We welcome the chance to showcase Toyota’s vision for the future of travel in Japan and feel lucky to be a part of it.”
Using the facilities of both businesses to realize the vision of electric air taxis, this international flight represents an important step forward in Joby and Toyota’s joint mission to provide sustainable, effective transport options for the future.
