The Japanese Successfully Tested a Drone Air Electric Taxi 0 11

The Japanese company SkyDrive Inc. successfully conducted the first public demonstration flight of its electric "flying car" in Tokyo, taking an important step towards a planned commercial launch in 2028.

The test flight, organized in partnership with Mitsubishi Estate Co. and Kanematsu Corp., took place over Tokyo Bay. The remotely piloted drone was in the air for about three and a half minutes and covered approximately 150 meters.

The SD-05 model is an electric-powered aircraft with battery power, equipped with 12 rotors and designed to carry up to three passengers. The estimated flight range is between 15 and 40 kilometers. According to SkyDrive, the compact and lightweight design of the aircraft allows it to land in more diverse locations compared to traditional helicopters, which typically require larger spaces.

Alongside the demonstration flight, the company introduced a specialized terminal equipped with an automated check-in system using facial recognition. This will allow operators to monitor takeoffs and landings.

"Flying cars" are seen as a potential solution to urban mobility issues such as traffic congestion and overcrowded public transport.

SkyDrive CEO Tomohiro Fukuzawa expressed optimism about the future cost of flights. He stated that after 2030, fares could drop "to about two times the cost of a taxi ride, or possibly lower."