FedEx and Elroy Air to Test Autonomous Hybrid eVTOL

FedEx Express is partnering with California-based Elroy Air to develop and test an autonomous hybrid electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for cargo in 2023.

Thom Patterson

Thursday, March 31, 2022 at 01:31 PM ET

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Chaparral is described as “the first end-to-end autonomous vertical take-off and landing aerial cargo system.” [Courtesy: FedEx]

Key Takeaways:

FedEx Express is partnering with Elroy Air to develop and test an autonomous hybrid electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, Chaparral, for middle-mile cargo operations starting in 2023.
This initiative aims to enhance logistics by addressing rising e-commerce demand and improving package delivery to rural communities, utilizing the Chaparral's ability to carry 300-500 pounds of cargo up to 300 miles without requiring additional infrastructure.
The partnership reflects a broader trend in the global package delivery industry, with companies like UPS and DHL also investing in eVTOL and electric aircraft to advance air mobility and improve supply chain efficiency.

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FedEx Express is partnering with California-based Elroy Air to develop and test an autonomous hybrid electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for cargo in 2023.

The announcement Wednesday by the FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) subsidiary is the latest signal that the global package delivery industry is interested in exploring the potential of eVTOL and advanced air mobility.

FedEx and Elroy Air to Test Autonomous Hybrid eVTOL

FedEx Express is partnering with California-based Elroy Air to develop and test an autonomous hybrid electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for cargo in 2023.

Key Takeaways:

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