Suzuki Motor has teamed up with Japanese startup SkyDrive to develop an autonomous multi-rotor aircraft, dubbed the Skycar. The all-electric flying vehicle was showcased by Maruti Suzuki at the Vibrant Gujarat Summit in January. Skycar is currently being manufactured at Suzuki’s facility in Iwata City, Japan, following an agreement signed between the two companies in October last year to jointly develop a flying car that can serve as an air taxi in urban areas.

The prototype displayed earlier this year in India is a preliminary version of the model currently under production. Designed to take off and land on building rooftops, the Skycar is equipped with autonomous features, making it ideal for urban air mobility. The production-ready version is slated for an official debut at the Osaka Expo in Japan in 2025. The project officially kicked off with a groundbreaking ceremony at Suzuki's Japanese plant earlier this month.

This flying car project aligns with Suzuki’s broader strategy to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. The company plans to build up to 100 Skycars annually, each offering a range of 15 minutes, covering around 15 kilometers with a maximum speed of 100 km/h. The initial model will accommodate two passengers and be powered by 12 motors and rotors. By 2031, Suzuki aims to develop a larger model capable of seating three passengers and offering a 40-kilometer range.

Suzuki is also exploring the introduction of flying cars in India. The company recently signed an agreement with Indian engineering firm Cyient to co-develop the flying vehicle. This partnership will enable Suzuki to leverage India’s engineering expertise and technological resources. While no specific timeline has been announced for the launch of flying cars in India, the collaboration signals a strong commitment to bringing the innovative technology to the country.

(MSN)