Eve Air Mobility—an independent electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) developer backed by Embraer, S.A.—announced three key suppliers on Sunday, June 18, as a preview to the Paris Air Show this week. Nidec Aerospace—a joint venture between Nidec Corporation of Japan and Embraer—will provide the electric propulsion system, BAE Systems will furnish an advanced energy storage system, and Duc Hélices Propellers will supply the rotors and props for the Eve eVTOL.
“The announcement of the first suppliers is a key milestone in the development of our eVTOL aircraft,” said Andre Stein, co-CEO of Eve Air Mobility. “As we advance toward entry into service, our goal is to make sure that we produce and deliver a mature aircraft that not only exceeds expectations but enables our customers to operate safely and efficiently with the lowest cost of operation.”
Nidec Aerospace
Nidec Corporation brings its expertise in manufacturing motors to develop cutting-edge electric powerplants with Embraer, using “well-proven” technologies. “We are excited to have Eve as our launch customer for Nidec Aerospace’s new electric propulsion system,” said Michael Briggs, senior vice president and president of the Motion & Energy Business Unit at Nidec. “With our cutting-edge technologies, Nidec Aerospace and Eve together are well-positioned to drive and accelerate advances in electrified urban air mobility towards a more sustainable future.”
BAE Systems
British aerospace and defense conglomerate BAE Systems is on board to develop the required energy storage systems needed to keep Eve’s eVTOL in the air. The company already has experience in battery systems powering municipal transit buses and other heavy-duty vehicles. Paired with its capability in providing advanced flight control systems, the storage systems will be integrated in such a way as to minimize emissions and noise. “BAE Systems is leading the development of advanced technology solutions and systems that will help create a more sustainable future in aviation,” said Ehtisham Siddiqui, vice president and general manager of Controls and Avionics Solutions at BAE Systems. “We are delighted to support Eve Air Mobility with our innovative energy storage system for their eVTOL aircraft.”
Duc Hélices Propellers
French propeller company Duc Hélices will supply rotors for the eight lift motors planned for Eve’s eVTOL, along with the cruise propeller. The company leverages more than 25 years of developing props of all sizes to the aviation industry.
“We are extremely honored to have been selected by EVE Air Mobility as the supplier of the rotors for the eight lift motors and the cruise propeller for their production vehicle,” said Duqueine Vincent, president and founder of Duc Hélices Propellers. “This recognition is a testimony to experience and expertise in the analysis, design, development, manufacture and maintenance of carbon composite propellers, rotors, fans and other aeronautical accessories. We are grateful to EVE for putting their trust in us.”
‘Building Blocks’ Approach
The Eve sVTOL will utilize a combined lift-plus-cruise configuration to execute its planned urban air mobility mission, including “eight dedicated propellers for vertical flight and fixed wings to fly on cruise, with no change in position of these components during flight,” according to the company in a statement. “The latest concept includes an electric pusher powered by dual electric motors that provide propulsion redundancy while ensuring high performance and safety. While offering numerous advantages including lower cost of operation, fewer parts, optimized structures and systems, it has been developed to offer efficient thrust with low sound.”
“Eve has taken a ‘building blocks’ approach to further enhance the maturity of the technology and its eVTOL,” said Alice Altissimo, vice president of program management and operation of Eve. “We continue to make very good progress and we are looking forward to working with these new suppliers as we accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable air travel.”
Eve recently announced its intention to launch an eVTOL network in San Francisco with United Airlines.
