5 Ways eVTOL Got Bigger in 2021

t’s only been a few years since the birth of the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) movement, but in 2021, companies were already clearing major hurdles.

Thom Patterson

Monday, December 27, 2021 at 08:55 AM ET

Verified

In July, Joby's prototype successfully completed a 154-mile flight on a single battery charge. [Courtesy: Bradley Wentzel]

Key Takeaways:

The eVTOL industry in 2021 experienced significant funding growth through SPAC mergers, boosting its financial capacity and credibility.
Major airlines (e.g., United, Azul) and automotive manufacturers (Honda, Stellantis) partnered with eVTOL companies, further validating the technology and market.
A concerted effort was made to develop essential ground infrastructure (vertiports) through strategic partnerships and expand into key international markets like Asia-Pacific.
Companies continued rapid prototype development and flight testing, projecting FAA or EASA certification as early as 2023-2024 for commercial operations.

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It’s only been a few years since the birth of the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) movement, but in 2021, companies were already clearing major hurdles to success in funding, aviation partnerships, and infrastructure.

More than 150 manufacturers and startups worldwide are developing entirely new designs for environmentally friendly, hovering air taxis, ambulances, regional airliners and even cargo haulers. None have achieved FAA or EASA certification, although several companies are projecting certification as soon as 2023 or 2024.