Multiple companies are creating electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircrafts, meaning air taxis could be the future of transportation. For example, Uber made a deal with Joby Aviation in December 2020 to off-load its Elevate unit. The ride-sharing company also invested money into the startup. In addition, Lilium, a company based in Munich, , is at work on launching air taxis in the next few years.
As well as flying taxis, companies are all in on robotaxis. Cruise and Waymo are one step away from launching services in San Francisco, Califonia. Delivery companies are also getting in on autonomous vehicles. FedEx is working with Aurora to create self-driving trucks.
While companies are clearly interested in developing many different ways for engers to get from Point A to Point B, are flying taxis the next big step for transportation? Could they also be easier to implement? Technology for flying already exists and doesn't need an Artificial Intelligence system to power the vehicles.
What the Future of Transportation Could Look Like
Per working together to make electric air taxis a reality. Part of the problem is addressing the infrastructure issues. For example, zoning laws and the fire risk have to be taken into , as well as noise pollution.
For its part, Joby Aviation aims to solve the noise pollution problem right out the gate. CEO JoeBen Bevirt told Fast Company in July 2021 that his goal was to build a quiet electric aircraft that people would want to take to get where they need to go. Joby is also working with Urban Movement Labs and intends to launch its fleet across the country, including New York, Washington D.C., Miami, and more. It also plans on making its service available in cities worldwide, including London, Paris, Berlin, and more. Archer Aviation also plans on bringing its aircraft to Miami and more towns after.
According to its website, the world of transportation in the coming years.
Source: Tech Crunch, Fast Company, Archer Aviation, Joby Aviation