FutureFlight
SkyDrive Set For First Flight of Flying Car With 100 Corporate Backers
The Japanese eVTOL developer expects to make a first public flight during the summer of 2020.
SkyDrive flying car
The SkyDrive flying car is expected to make a first public untethered flight in the summer of 2020.

Japanese eVTOL aircraft developer SkyDrive now says it has no fewer than 100 corporate sponsors to support the development of its flying car design. In a June 19 statement, the company said it expects to conduct a first flight for the vehicle during the summer.

According to SkyDrive, which is part of the Cartivator Resource Management consortium, its sponsors have committed a mix of direct financial support, as well as supply components, engineering advice, and seconded staff to support the program. Among the leading companies supporting the program are Panasonic, NEC, Yazaki, Joyson Safety Systems, Mizuno, Sony, and Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance.