US-eVTOL aircraft developer Joby has shown off its aircraft for the first time in Europe at the at the Farnborough Airshow.
The display of the full-scale replica is also the first time Joby has brought the full-scale aircraft to the UK and offers attendees the opportunity to explore the cabin interior.
According to Joby its battery-powered, four-passenger aircraft has a range of 100 miles (160km) while being around 100 times quieter than a conventional helicopter.
The passenger eVTOL aircraft is one of the most advanced in terms of reaching the market – the FAA has accepted Joby’s certification plans and approval and entry-into-service is expected next year.
The company plans to offer a service that uses app-based aerial ridesharing to move people around congested cities, using quick charging to transport passengers while advancing progress toward zero-emission aviation.
In the UK, while Joby said it expects London to offer a significant opportunity for eVTOL aircraft, it is also targeting rolling out services in the North of the country. For example, Joby said its eVTOL has the potential to connect Manchester Airport to Leeds in just 15 minutes, compared to on average 90 minutes by car. See network maps here.
