Supernal has confirmed plans to develop the landing gear for its four-passenger SA-1 eVTOL aircraft as it prepares to start flight testing a technology demonstrator by the end of 2024. During the Seoul ADEX air show in South Korea on October 18, the company announced a partnership with Italy’s Mecaer Aviation Group and the Hyundai WIA parts manufacturing subsidiary of its parent, Hyundai Motor Group.

Macaer specializes in designing and building landing gear, having developed systems for a variety of helicopters and business and general aviation aircraft. It has already been selected by rival eVTOL manufacturer Archer Aviation to develop the landing gear for its Midnight eVTOL vehicle. Hyundai WAI has experience in manufacturing and precision machine tools in the automotive and aerospace sectors.

Under the agreement, the partners will jointly address key issues such as weight, structural efficiency, energy absorption, and electronic systems integration for the SA-1’s landing gear. The design will feature wheels rather than skids, giving greater flexibility to maneuver the all-electric aircraft on the ground, according to Mecaer CEO Bruno Spagnolini.

“Our collaboration with Hyundai WIA and Mecaer is a testament to Supernal’s commitment to innovation and the highest standards of safety, design, and manufacturing for advanced air mobility,” commented Jaiwon Shin, president of Hyundai Motor Group and CEO of Supernal. “This partnership unites our collective strengths and expertise to deliver aerospace-grade eVTOL landing gear in record time and ensure their scalability and sustainability. These types of automotive and aerospace strategic alliances are key to the growth and success of our emerging industry.”