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SkyDrive

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uuid00004sv

Namestring
SkyDrive
Legal namestring
株式会社SkyDrive (SkyDrive Inc.)
Company typeenum
Private
Founded yearint
2018
Descriptiontext

SkyDrive Inc. (株式会社SkyDrive) is a Japanese electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft developer founded in July 2018 and headquartered in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture. The company designs, develops, manufactures, and sells the three-seat SKYDRIVE SD-05 — a compact multi-rotor eVTOL powered by 12 electric motors driving 12 three-blade rotors, with CFRP/aluminium construction, 1,400 kg maximum takeoff weight, 100 km/h cruise speed, and 15–40 km range. The aircraft is based on a patent-pending dome-shaped rotor design developed under Chief Development Officer Arnaud Coville and is pursuing dual type certification with Japan's Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB, application accepted October 2021) and the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA, accepted June 2024), with commercial launch targeted for 2028 following the March 2026 General Certification Plan agreement and the April 2026 ADO certification.

SkyDrive operates a vertically integrated business model spanning R&D (Toyota City headquarters with Toyota test field, Nagoya Airport office co-located with the MLIT Aircraft Certification Center, and Yamaguchi flight test facility), serial manufacturing via wholly-owned subsidiary Sky Works Inc. at Suzuki Motor Corporation's Iwata factory, and ecosystem development through vertiport and rail-air intermodal partnerships with Osaka Metro, Marubeni, Soracle, JR East, JR Kyushu, Skyports, Mitsubishi Estate, Kanematsu, Nomura Real Estate, and NEXCO West. The company has accumulated a forward order book of 70+ SD-05 aircraft via Letters of Intent with helicopter operators and regional transport companies across Japan, the UAE, Indonesia, Taiwan, and the US — including AeroGulf Services (20 firm + 50 option), Whitesky Aviation (up to 30), 7A Drones (10), Aeroauto (8), MASC (2), Tohoku Air Service (1), JR East (1), and Space Aviation. The SD-03 prototype completed Japan's first public manned flying car test flight in 2020.

Pre-revenue at scale for its core eVTOL aircraft business, SkyDrive historically generated operating revenue from a SkyLift industrial cargo drone service and a drone show business, both of which were spun off into a wholly-owned subsidiary, AlterSky Inc., in July 2025. Aircraft revenue is structured as multi-year negotiated LOIs with unit deliveries between 2028 and 2029; pricing is not publicly disclosed. The company is funded primarily through equity, having raised cumulative funding above ¥43 billion (~$290M) as of August 2025, including a ¥8.3 billion Pre-Series D led by MUFG Bank in July 2025 with participation from Suzuki, JR East, JR Kyushu, Univance, and others. A retail-investor fund via eCrowd NEXT launched in October 2025, signaling IPO preparation. Future commercial air-taxi revenue is expected to be operator-driven with SkyDrive supplying aircraft, technology, and integration support; revenue split structures remain to be defined.

Short descriptiontext

SkyDrive is a Japanese eVTOL aircraft developer founded in 2018 that designs, manufactures, and sells the three-seat SD-05 for urban air mobility, pursuing dual JCAB/FAA type certification with commercial launch targeted for 2028 and a 70+ unit forward order book from global helicopter operators.

Operating statusenum
Operating
Ownership categoryenum
Headcount rangeband
101–250
akta.pro rankint
HeadquartersToyota, Japan
HQ citystring
Toyota
HQ countrystring
Japan
HQ regionstring
Asia
Markets served

Serves global market

Offices6 records

Each record includes

City, Country, Type, Description, Source

Keyword5 values
eVTOL aircraft manufacturing, urban air mobility, cargo drone services, air taxi development, drone show entertainment
Industry4 codes
1Electric & Hybrid-Electric Propulsion (eVTOL/Regional)
CodeIMABADAHPrimaryYes
2Helicopter Air Taxi / Urban Air Mobility (UAM) Services
CodeTLAFACACPrimaryNo
3Air Taxi & Urban Air Mobility (eVTOL) Operators
CodeTLAFAAADPrimaryNo
4Helicopter Air Taxi & Urban Air Mobility (eVTOL/VTOL) Passenger Services
CodeTHABAGACPrimaryNo
NAICS code3 codes
  • Aircraft Manufacturing336411
  • Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing336413
  • Air Transportation481
SIC code3 codes
  • Aircraft & Parts3720
  • Aircraft3721
  • Aircraft Parts & Auxiliary Equipment, Nec3728
Product category
Urban Air Mobility / eVTOL Aircraft
GTM motion4 records

Each record includes

Type, Description, Source

Revenue model6 records
1Aircraft sales (eVTOL SD-05)
TypeHardware Sales
Description

Pre-revenue at scale, with forward aircraft sale contracts and Letters of Intent (LOIs) signed with operators for delivery 2028-2029 (e.g., AeroGulf Services 20 units; 7A Drones 10 units; Aeroauto 8 units; MASC 2 units; JR East 1 unit; Tohoku Air Service 1 unit). Customers include helicopter operators, regional transport companies, drone operators expanding to eVTOL, and tourism/medical service providers.

skydrive.co.jp
2Pre-orders and forward purchase agreements
TypeOne Time License
Description

Pre-orders up to 30 units from Whitesky Aviation (Indonesia) and other strategic agreements supporting future production scaling at the Suzuki-owned Iwata factory.

skydrive.co.jp
3Cargo drone services (SkyLift / SkyLift Plus)
TypeManaged Services
Description

Operating revenue from SkyDrive's industrial cargo drone service for transport of construction materials, medical supplies, agricultural products, disaster relief, and hazardous materials. Offered as SkyLift Plus (turnkey from planning to reporting) and subscription contracts (customer-operated drone). Service was spun out to subsidiary AlterSky Inc. in July 2025.

skydrive.co.jp
4Drone show services (entertainment)
TypeProfessional Services
Description

Event-based drone show production (300-500 drone units) for sporting events, festivals, brand campaigns, and resort installations (e.g., Hoshino Resorts Tomamu first long-term resort drone show from December 2025). Operated by AlterSky subsidiary.

skydrive.co.jp
5Future commercial passenger air taxi services
TypeSubscription Recurring
Description

Planned recurring air-taxi revenue from 2028 onward on intra-city routes (Tokyo 2030 vision; Osaka Bay; Oita Beppu/Yufuin; Penghu medical; Setouchi tourism; Dubai Palm Jumeirah). Operator-customer revenue split structure TBD.

skydrive.co.jp
6Investor/capital funding (pre-revenue)
TypeLicensing Royalties
Description

Pre-revenue company funded by Pre-Series D (¥8.3B / $56M, July 2025) led by MUFG Bank with Suzuki, JR East, JR Kyushu, Univance and others. Cumulative funding over ¥43B (~$290M). Additional Series C round (~¥8B) reported August 2024.

skydrive.co.jp
Marketing channels10 records

Each record includes

Title, Type, Stage, Description, Source

Distribution channels7 records

Each record includes

Title, Type, Scope, Target buyer, Description, Source

Cost components6 values
Technology or R&D, Supply Chain, Personnel, Marketing or Sales, Operations, Infrastructure
Pricing details6 tiers
1AeroGulf Services (Dubai): 20 SD-05 units, 10 in 2028 + 10 in 2029 + option for 50 more; specific price per unit negotiated under LOI.
ModelUnit PricingBilling cadenceMulti-year contract
Notes

Negotiated LOI price, first commercial terms with a non-Japanese customer.

skydrive.co.jp
27A Drones (Taiwan): 10 SD-05 units, 1 in 2028 + 4 in 2029 + 5 to be determined.
ModelUnit PricingBilling cadenceMulti-year contract
Notes

Pricing structure and delivery schedule agreed in LOI.

businesswire.com
3Aeroauto Global (Florida): 8 SD-05 units, 4 in 2028 + 4 in 2029.
ModelUnit PricingBilling cadenceMulti-year contract
Notes

Specific price per unit and delivery schedule negotiated under LOI.

skydrive.co.jp
4MASC (Kurashiki, Japan): 2 SD-05 units in 2028.
ModelUnit PricingBilling cadenceMulti-year contract
Notes

Specific price and delivery schedule agreed in LOI (MASC had pre-order since 2023).

skydrive.co.jp
5Whitesky Aviation (Indonesia): pre-order up to 30 SD-05 units, operations targeted FY2028.
ModelUnit PricingBilling cadenceMulti-year contract
Notes

Pre-order not yet converted to firm order; pricing TBD.

ainonline.com
6SkyLift cargo drone service: SkyLift Plus (turnkey planning-to-reporting) and subscription (customer-operated).
ModelSubscriptionBilling cadenceAnnual
Notes

No upfront investment required for subscription; insurance included; 30 kg payload per flight.

skydrive.co.jp
GTM typeB2B
B2B
Offering typeHardware or Manufacturing
Hardware or Manufacturing
Brand1 of 2 records shown
1SKYDRIVE (SD-05)
Description

SkyDrive's flagship three-seat electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, designed for compact urban air mobility operations and targeted for commercial launch in 2028.

skydrive.co.jp
+1 more record
Core offering1 text field

SkyDrive develops, manufactures, and sells the SKYDRIVE (Model SD-05) three-seat electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft — a compact multi-rotor air taxi designed for urban air mobility, tourism, and regional transport with a target commercial launch in 2028. The company also operates industrial cargo drone services (SkyLift) and drone show entertainment services through its subsidiary AlterSky Inc., and produces earlier SD-03 prototype aircraft plus the SD-XX concept vehicle. Manufacturing is performed by subsidiary Sky Works at Suzuki Motor Corporation's Iwata factory.

Differentiator
Functional benefit
Problem solved
Quantifiable outcome1 of 6 values shown
  • SD-05 reached 100 km/h in flight testing
+5 more records
Product overview1 text field

SkyDrive is a Japanese eVTOL aircraft manufacturer and air mobility company with a platform-plus-modules product architecture centered on its flagship three-seat SKYDRIVE (Model SD-05) eVTOL aircraft. The SD-05 is the core commercial product targeting 2028 commercial launch, supported by earlier-generation prototypes (SD-03, the first public manned flying car in Japan, and the future SD-XX door-to-door concept). Alongside its eVTOL business, SkyDrive historically operated a SkyLift cargo drone service (now transferred to its subsidiary AlterSky Inc.) and a drone show service (also under AlterSky). Manufacturing is handled by subsidiary Sky Works Inc., which produces the SD-05 at Suzuki Motor Corporation's Iwata factory. The company's services span aircraft development and certification, vertiport operations (in partnership with Skyports for automation systems), and broader drone-related services including logistics and entertainment.

Product and service4 records
1SKYDRIVE (Model SD-05)
CategoryCore product / eVTOL aircraft
Description

A three-seat electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft designed for urban air mobility. Features 12 motors and 12 three-blade rotors in a compact multi-rotor layout (~11.5 m × 11.3 m × 3 m), 1,400 kg maximum takeoff weight, 100 km/h max cruise speed, and 15-40 km range. Pursuing dual certification (JCAB and FAA) with commercial launch targeted for 2028. Sold via Letters of Intent to helicopter operators, regional transport companies, and government consortia for tourism, air taxi, emergency medical, and regional connectivity use cases.

2SD-03
CategoryPrototype / Test aircraft
Description

First public manned flying car prototype that successfully completed Japan's first public manned test flight in 2020 at SkyDrive's Toyota City test field. Features proprietary contra-rotating propeller (CRP) technology with four corner-mounted counter-rotating propeller units (8 total propellers) producing lift in one of the world's most compact airframes, with a maximum takeoff weight of approximately 400 kg (881 lb). Foundation for the SD-05 multi-rotor architecture.

3SkyLift Cargo Drone
CategoryCargo drone service
Description

Industrial cargo drone manufactured in Japan by SkyDrive (now operated by subsidiary AlterSky Inc.), capable of carrying up to 30 kg payload per flight (up to 700 kg per day) with a 30-meter hoist mechanism for non-landing cargo delivery. Body dimensions 1.9 m × 1.2 m × 1.0 m, 35 kg body weight, maximum flight range 2 km, maximum speed 36 km/h, wind resistance 7 m/s, flight time 9-15 min. Features redundant design for hazardous material transport (e.g., gasoline, chainsaws). Offered as SkyLift Plus (turnkey planning-to-reporting) and subscription (customer-operated drone with insurance included).

4Drone Show Service
CategoryEntertainment / Drone show service
Description

Drone show planning and operation service using up to 500 drones for sporting events, festivals, brand campaigns, and resort installations. Operated by subsidiary AlterSky Inc. (spun out July 2025). Includes the first long-term/permanent drone show at a Japanese resort facility (Hoshino Resorts Tomamu, from December 2025), as well as events for stadiums (e.g., Nagoya Grampus, Ehime FC), beaches (Enoshima), and cultural festivals (VISIONOID 'Enoshima Legend: Tennyo and Ryujin' with ~35,000 attendees).

Scale indicator13 records

Each record includes

Type, Value, Description, Source

Partnership34 partners
Strategic tierCoreTypeChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAnnounced on2026-05-19
Description

LOI for purchase of 1 SD-05 aircraft with 2028 delivery. Plans to use for tourism, regional transport, medical services, and disaster response in the Tohoku region. Established helicopter operator since 1991. SkyDrive's first planned aircraft sale to a Japanese helicopter operator.

Strategic tierMidTypeChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAnnounced on2026-05-13
Description

LOI signed May 13, 2026 for purchase of SKYDRIVE aircraft. Helicopter-related services provider.

Strategic tierCoreTypeStrategic or Co-development PartnerAnnounced on2026-05-08
Description

Member of Japan's first eVTOL vertiport operations consortium for the Osakako Vertiport on Osaka Bay, alongside SkyDrive, Osaka Metro, Soracle, and Osaka prefectural/municipal governments. Targeting 100 eVTOL aircraft in Osaka Bay by 2035.

4Soracle (Japan)
Strategic tierMidTypeStrategic or Co-development PartnerAnnounced on2026-05-08
Description

Member of Japan's first eVTOL vertiport operations consortium for Osakako Vertiport on Osaka Bay, with SkyDrive, Osaka Metro, Marubeni, and Osaka prefectural/municipal governments.

aijourn.com
Strategic tierCoreTypeStrategic or Co-development PartnerAnnounced on2026-04-24
Description

Partnership agreement on advanced air mobility signed April 2026, exploring expressway-adjacent vertiport sites for SkyDrive's eVTOL operations in Western Japan.

Strategic tierCoreTypeChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAnnounced on2026-03-10
Description

LOI signed at VERTICON 2026 Atlanta for 8 SD-05 aircraft (4 in 2028, 4 in 2029). Operates the world's first dedicated flying car showroom and sales platform in Florida; building out vertiport, charging, and pilot training infrastructure for the US Southeast.

Strategic tierCoreTypeChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAnnounced on2026-03-10
Description

Strategic partnership expanded from South Carolina to Florida. Provides aircraft management, charter services, and pilot operations. Supports AAM operations in the US Southeast and integration with Greenville Downtown Airport.

Strategic tierCoreTypeTechnology or IntegrationAnnounced on2026-03-06
Description

Vertiport infrastructure partner. Deployed the Vertiport Automation System during SkyDrive's Tokyo demo flights (Feb 2026) and contributed to Osaka Round Table. Operates the Manhattan heliport and is building Dubai's first commercial AAM vertiport. Oita consortium member for vertiport siting analysis.

Strategic tierMidTypeChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAnnounced on2026-03-06
Description

LOI for purchase of 2 SD-05 aircraft in 2028 for Setouchi area tourism (Kasaoka islands, Kojima/Washuzan), visiting medical, and remote-area logistics. Earlier pre-order agreement since November 2023; jointly opened 'Kurashiki Flying Car Exhibition Hall'.

Strategic tierCoreTypeStrategic or Co-development PartnerAnnounced on2026-02-24
Description

Tokyo demo flight partner (Feb 2026) at Tokyo Big Sight. Co-leads the Tokyo eVTOL implementation project under Tokyo Metropolitan Government subsidy. Provides urban-port insights, terminal design (Mitsubishi Jisho Sekkei), and access to Marunouchi and waterfront properties.

Strategic tierCoreTypeStrategic or Co-development PartnerAnnounced on2026-02-24
Description

Tokyo demo flight partner and Tokyo eVTOL implementation project member. Vertiport installation and operation business in Japan. Member of Public-Private Council for Air Mobility Revolution and Osaka Round Table. Co-organiser of Kobe 'Minato-machi Kobe' symposium with SkyDrive.

Strategic tierMidTypeStrategic or Co-development PartnerAnnounced on2026-02-19
Description

Partnership with India's Hyderabad-based Marut Drones for air taxi development in the Indian market. Marut Drones is India's multi-utility drone company (agriculture, healthcare logistics, surveillance).

Strategic tierCoreTypeChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAnnounced on2026-02-12
Description

LOI for purchase of 10 SD-05 aircraft (1 in 2028, 4 in 2029, 5 TBD) for emergency medical evacuation between Magong (Penghu main island) and Hujing Island, Taiwan. SkyDrive's first LOI in the Asian market. Earlier May 2025 partnership agreement for Penghu emergency medical services with ITRI.

Strategic tierFlagshipTypeOthersAnnounced on2026-02-03
Description

Lead public partner for Tokyo eVTOL Implementation Project (Phase I). Co-funded demo flights at Tokyo Big Sight (Feb 24-28, 2026). Roadmap targeting 2030 urban commercial operations. Selected SkyDrive + Joby Aviation + Nomura Real Estate consortium November 2025.

Strategic tierMidTypeStrategic or Co-development PartnerAnnounced on2026-01-24
Description

Supporter agreement with the leading parking system company for vertiport parking infrastructure development.

Strategic tierCoreTypeTechnology or IntegrationAnnounced on2026-01-23
Description

Long-term development contract for the Electrical Wiring Interconnection System (EWIS) of the SD-05. SASMOS provides system design, prototyping, certification support, and serial production readiness. Customers include Boeing, Airbus, Honeywell. Strengthens India-Japan aerospace partnership.

Strategic tierCoreTypeChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAnnounced on2026-01-15
Description

LOI for purchase of 20 SD-05 eVTOL aircraft (10 in 2028, 10 in 2029) with option for 50 more. Plans tourist flights to/from Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. First SkyDrive customer to convert pre-order into concrete price/delivery commitments outside Japan. Earlier MOUs in February 2025 (pre-order up to 50 units).

Strategic tierMidTypeStrategic or Co-development PartnerAnnounced on2026-01-08
Description

Supporter contract for joint development of air taxi-specific wire harnesses. Sumitomo Wiring brings automotive-grade mass-production wire harness design and quality management expertise.

Strategic tierLowTypeGTM or Marketing PartnerAnnounced on2025-12-18
Description

SkyDrive joined ISA as a full member in December 2025. ISA is a Japanese ecosystem for impact startups addressing social challenges through sustainable growth.

Strategic tierCoreTypeStrategic or Co-development PartnerAnnounced on2025-11-10
Description

Lead consortium partner in the Tokyo Metropolitan Government's 'eVTOL Implementation Project Phase I'. Selected to conduct feasibility studies, develop vertiport locations, and promote public acceptance for SkyDrive (and Joby Aviation) aircraft. Targeting 2028 commercial services and 2030 full urban commercialisation.

Strategic tierMidTypeStrategic or Co-development PartnerAnnounced on2025-11-10
Description

Co-participant in the Tokyo Metropolitan Government's 'eVTOL Implementation Project Phase I' alongside SkyDrive and Nomura Real Estate. Joby aircraft to be deployed alongside SkyDrive SD-05 in Tokyo.

Strategic tierMidTypeStrategic or Co-development PartnerAnnounced on2025-10-08
Description

Selected promising vertiport candidate sites in the Shima area for SkyDrive's eVTOL operations. Part of the broader 'Rail x SkyDrive' strategy.

23UAE Abu Dhabi Integrated Transport Centre (ITC)
Strategic tierMidTypeStrategic or Co-development PartnerAnnounced on2025-10-08
Description

Strategic partnership signed November 18, 2025 with Abu Dhabi's government transport authority. Supports SkyDrive's expansion into UAE air mobility market.

skydrive.co.jp
24Air Silk Road Global Pilot Partnership Program
Strategic tierMidTypeStrategic or Co-development PartnerAnnounced on2025-09-08
Description

Member of cross-border low-altitude travel network with partners including NexAvian, Skyports, Intercrus Indonesia, Singapore Economic Development Board. Targets Greater Bay Area, Japan, and ASEAN markets.

skydrive.co.jp
Strategic tierMidTypeOthersAnnounced on2025-09-08
Description

Public-private consultation participation for eVTOL operations in Thailand. SkyDrive joined Thai Civil Aviation Authority, Bangkok Airways, Saha Group, and Saha Tokyu Corporation to explore flying car deployment in Thailand.

Strategic tierFlagshipTypeStrategic or Co-development PartnerAnnounced on2025-08-29
Description

Capital alliance announced July 2025; pre-order for 1 SKYDRIVE SD-05 aircraft (August 2025). Business collaboration for 'Rail x Flying Car' since February 2025, including launch of new tourism value at AZUMA FARM KOIWAI in spring 2026. Joint exhibition at TAKANAWA GATEWAY CITY (Aug 29-31, 2025). Pre-Series D investor.

Strategic tierCoreTypeChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAnnounced on2025-08-21
Description

Strategic alliance and pre-order for up to 30 SD-05 units signed at HELI EXPO ASIA 2025. Plans air taxi from Cengkareng Heliport (Soekarno-Hatta), central Jakarta sightseeing by FY2028, and use in Indonesia's mining sector. Hub-and-spoke vertiport infrastructure.

Strategic tierCoreTypeTechnology or IntegrationAnnounced on2025-08-08
Description

Development agreement for high-performance carbon-composite rotors for SD-05. DUC has 30 years of expertise in carbon-fiber composite propellers and is EASA/FAA-certified. Initial product delivered in 4 months.

Strategic tierCoreTypeStrategic or Co-development PartnerAnnounced on2025-07-04
Description

Pre-Series D investor and consortium partner for Oita Prefecture's next-generation air mobility project (with SkyDrive, Kanematsu, JTB, Skyports). Targeting 2028 commercial sightseeing service in Beppu Bay and Beppu-Yufuin air taxi route. Feasibility study completed February 2026.

Strategic tierMidTypeGTM or Marketing PartnerAnnounced on2025-06-20
Description

SkyDrive joined AEON Mall's 'Manabi no Banpaku' educational project across 136 stores nationwide (July-August 2025). Produced original VR flight video of SKYDRIVE at Expo Vertiport and hosted paper VR goggle events for children.

Strategic tierCoreTypeTechnology or IntegrationAnnounced on2025-06-19
Description

Development agreement for the Pilot Control Stick of the SD-05. Stirling Dynamics (35+ years in aerospace) supplies active inceptor with high-precision force feedback, ergonomic design, and pilot-in-the-loop capabilities. ITAR-approved and AS9100-certified.

Strategic tierMidTypeStrategic or Co-development PartnerAnnounced on2025-05-08
Description

Partnership agreement with SkyDrive and 7A Drones to explore eVTOL operations for emergency medical transport across the Penghu Islands off Taiwan's west coast. Dispatch physicians within 10-km radius from Penghu Island.

Strategic tierFlagshipTypeStrategic or Co-development PartnerAnnounced on2024-08-26
Description

Strategic partnership to develop flying cars and establish operational details, aiming for social implementation. Osaka Metro is investing in SkyDrive and led the construction of the dedicated 'Osakako Vertiport' (12,000 sq m facility, Osaka Bay). Co-leading Japan's first eVTOL vertiport operations consortium (with Soracle, Marubeni, Osaka prefectural and municipal governments) targeting ~100 eVTOL aircraft in Osaka Bay by 2035. Targets commercial service launch in 2028 at Morinomiya area.

Strategic tierFlagshipTypeStrategic or Co-development PartnerAnnounced on2024-01-10
Description

Suzuki is SkyDrive's official production partner and strategic investor. March 2024: SD-05 production began at a Suzuki-owned factory in Iwata, Shizuoka. Suzuki invested via third-party allotment (January 2024) and participated in the Pre-Series D round (July 2025). Suzuki appointed Naomi Ishii as SkyDrive independent director (September 2025). Suzuki Vice Chairman Naomi Ishii serves as outside director. Joint exhibition at India trade event. Joint business and technological collaboration.

Recent move10 records

Each record includes

Date, Type, Title, Description, Source

Expansion highlight6 records

Each record includes

Type, Description

Peers10 records
TypeDirect peer
Description

US-based eVTOL developer with a four-seat tiltpropeller aircraft, FAA certification progress, and the deepest capital base in the sector. Direct competitor co-deployed with SkyDrive in Tokyo's eVTOL Implementation Project Phase I; both target 2028 commercial urban air taxi operations.

TypeDirect peer
Description

US-based eVTOL manufacturer developing the Midnight four-seat tiltrotor aircraft for urban air mobility, with United Airlines and Stellantis as strategic backers. Competes with SkyDrive for global operator partnerships and city deployments.

TypeDirect peer
Description

UK-based eVTOL developer of the four-seat VX4 aircraft targeting intra-urban routes. Similar commercialization timeline (2028) and use-case profile to SkyDrive's SD-05, with comparable regulatory certification work under EASA.

TypeDirect peer
Description

Germany-based eVTOL developer of the multi-rotor VoloCity air taxi and larger VoloRegion models. Direct competitor to SkyDrive in the urban air taxi category, with similar compact multicopter design philosophy and EASA certification path.

TypeDirect peer
Description

China-based autonomous eVTOL developer with type certificate (TC) granted by CAAC for the EH216-S two-seat aircraft in 2023. Closest eVTOL competitor to have achieved full type certification, making it a benchmark for SkyDrive's JCAB path.

TypeDirect peer
Description

Germany-based eVTOL developer of the 7-seat Lilium Jet using electric ducted fan technology. Targets longer-range regional air mobility versus SkyDrive's shorter intra-urban missions, but competes for the same operator/airline customer base.

TypeDirect peer
Description

Brazil-based (Embraer-backed) eVTOL developer of the four-seat eVTOL aircraft and a portfolio of urban air mobility services. Competes directly with SkyDrive for airline/operator partnerships and city route deployment.

TypeEmerging player
Description

US-based electric aviation company developing both the ALIA passenger eVTOL and CX300 cargo conventional takeoff aircraft. Partial overlap with SkyDrive on cargo drone and regional eVTOL use cases; both target 2025–2028 certification milestones.

TypeEmerging player
Description

China-based eVTOL developer of the Prosperity tiltrotor and CarryAll cargo variants. Competes with SkyDrive in Asia and has demonstrated type certification progress with CAAC, particularly relevant given SkyDrive's Taiwan, Indonesia, and broader Asian expansion plans.

TypeBroad incumbent
Description

SkyDrive is headquartered in Toyota City and benefits from proximity to Toyota's mobility ecosystem. While Toyota has not announced a competing eVTOL program of comparable scale, its automotive R&D and capital resources make it a potential incumbent competitor or partner in the Japan urban air mobility market.

Market position
Strengths5 records

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Headline, Details, Source

Weaknesses5 records

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Headline, Details, Source

Competitive moat6 records

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Type, Details

Key risks6 records

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Headline, Details, Source

Key highlights7 records

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Headline, Details, Source

Customer concentration

Classification, Details

Named customers13 records

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Name, Industry, Type, Use case, Source, UUID

Segment7 records

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Title, Type, Primary, Description, Pain point addressed, Use case, Source

Ideal customer profile4 records

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Profile, Firmographic size, Sales motion, Sales cycle length, Buying structure, Purchase trigger, Buyer persona, Geography, Industry vertical, Primary use case, Description, Pain points, Evidence proof points, Target buyer

Technology focused
Yes
API detail
Has APIbool
No

Docs URL, Description

Integration2 records

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Title, Type, Description, Source

AI capability9 records

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Type, Description, Source

AI maturity
App detail

Has app

Feature9 records

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Title, Differentiator, Description, Source

Core technology
Revenue estimate
Valuation estimate
Number of profiles
Profiles10 records

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Name, Designation, Designation category, Overview, Profile commentary, Source

Subsidiaries3 records

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Name, Acquired on, Relationship type, Type, Business focus

Compliance4 records

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Name, Class, Description

Funding overview

Funding stage, Last funding date, Total funding USD

Funding rounds8 records

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Round, Amount USD, Date, Pre money valuation, Total investors, Investors, News

Investors27 records

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Name, Type, Date of entry, Rounds participated, Website

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Each record includes

Name, Acquisition type, Announced date, Completed date, Status, Website, News

Investment

Each record includes

Name, Round, Announced date, Lead investor, Website, News

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

SkyDrive

Urban Air Mobility / eVTOL Aircraftskydrive.co.jp

SkyDrive is a Japanese eVTOL aircraft developer founded in 2018 that designs, manufactures, and sells the three-seat SD-05 for urban air mobility, pursuing dual JCAB/FAA type certification with commercial launch targeted for 2028 and a 70+ unit forward order book from global helicopter operators.

What SkyDrive does

SkyDrive Inc. (株式会社SkyDrive) is a Japanese electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft developer founded in July 2018 and headquartered in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture. The company designs, develops, manufactures, and sells the three-seat SKYDRIVE SD-05 — a compact multi-rotor eVTOL powered by 12 electric motors driving 12 three-blade rotors, with CFRP/aluminium construction, 1,400 kg maximum takeoff weight, 100 km/h cruise speed, and 15–40 km range. The aircraft is based on a patent-pending dome-shaped rotor design developed under Chief Development Officer Arnaud Coville and is pursuing dual type certification with Japan's Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB, application accepted October 2021) and the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA, accepted June 2024), with commercial launch targeted for 2028 following the March 2026 General Certification Plan agreement and the April 2026 ADO certification.

SkyDrive operates a vertically integrated business model spanning R&D (Toyota City headquarters with Toyota test field, Nagoya Airport office co-located with the MLIT Aircraft Certification Center, and Yamaguchi flight test facility), serial manufacturing via wholly-owned subsidiary Sky Works Inc. at Suzuki Motor Corporation's Iwata factory, and ecosystem development through vertiport and rail-air intermodal partnerships with Osaka Metro, Marubeni, Soracle, JR East, JR Kyushu, Skyports, Mitsubishi Estate, Kanematsu, Nomura Real Estate, and NEXCO West. The company has accumulated a forward order book of 70+ SD-05 aircraft via Letters of Intent with helicopter operators and regional transport companies across Japan, the UAE, Indonesia, Taiwan, and the US — including AeroGulf Services (20 firm + 50 option), Whitesky Aviation (up to 30), 7A Drones (10), Aeroauto (8), MASC (2), Tohoku Air Service (1), JR East (1), and Space Aviation. The SD-03 prototype completed Japan's first public manned flying car test flight in 2020.

Pre-revenue at scale for its core eVTOL aircraft business, SkyDrive historically generated operating revenue from a SkyLift industrial cargo drone service and a drone show business, both of which were spun off into a wholly-owned subsidiary, AlterSky Inc., in July 2025. Aircraft revenue is structured as multi-year negotiated LOIs with unit deliveries between 2028 and 2029; pricing is not publicly disclosed. The company is funded primarily through equity, having raised cumulative funding above ¥43 billion (~$290M) as of August 2025, including a ¥8.3 billion Pre-Series D led by MUFG Bank in July 2025 with participation from Suzuki, JR East, JR Kyushu, Univance, and others. A retail-investor fund via eCrowd NEXT launched in October 2025, signaling IPO preparation. Future commercial air-taxi revenue is expected to be operator-driven with SkyDrive supplying aircraft, technology, and integration support; revenue split structures remain to be defined.

SkyDrive firmographics

Firmographics
Name
SkyDrive
Legal name
株式会社SkyDrive (SkyDrive Inc.)
Website
https://skydrive.co.jp/
Company type
Private
Founded year
2018
Operating status
Operating
Headcount range
101–250 employees
Short description
SkyDrive is a Japanese eVTOL aircraft developer founded in 2018 that designs, manufactures, and sells the three-seat SD-05 for urban air mobility, pursuing dual JCAB/FAA type certification with commercial launch targeted for 2028 and a 70+ unit forward order book from global helicopter operators.
Ownership category
akta.pro rank

SkyDrive industry classification

Industry
Product category
Urban Air Mobility / eVTOL Aircraft
NAICS
Aircraft Manufacturing (336411), Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing (336413), Air Transportation (481)
SIC
Aircraft & Parts (3720), Aircraft (3721), Aircraft Parts & Auxiliary Equipment, Nec (3728)
akta.pro primary industry
Electric & Hybrid-Electric Propulsion (eVTOL/Regional) (IMABADAH)
akta.pro secondary industries
Helicopter Air Taxi / Urban Air Mobility (UAM) Services (TLAFACAC), Air Taxi & Urban Air Mobility (eVTOL) Operators (TLAFAAAD), Helicopter Air Taxi & Urban Air Mobility (eVTOL/VTOL) Passenger Services (THABAGAC)

Keywords

  • EVTOL aircraft manufacturing
  • Urban air mobility
  • Cargo drone services
  • Air taxi development
  • Drone show entertainment

Where SkyDrive is headquartered

Location

Headquarters

HQ city
Toyota
HQ country
Japan
HQ region
Asia

Offices6 records

Markets served

SkyDrive business model

Business model
GTM type
B2B
Offering type
Hardware or Manufacturing
Cost components
Technology or R&D, Supply Chain, Personnel, Marketing or Sales, Operations, Infrastructure

Revenue model

  1. Aircraft sales (eVTOL SD-05): Pre-revenue at scale, with forward aircraft sale contracts and Letters of Intent (LOIs) signed with operators for delivery 2028-2029 (e.g., AeroGulf Services 20 units; 7A Drones 10 units; Aeroauto 8 units; MASC 2 units; JR East 1 unit; Tohoku Air Service 1 unit). Customers include helicopter operators, regional transport companies, drone operators expanding to eVTOL, and tourism/medical service providers.
  2. Pre-orders and forward purchase agreements: Pre-orders up to 30 units from Whitesky Aviation (Indonesia) and other strategic agreements supporting future production scaling at the Suzuki-owned Iwata factory.
  3. Cargo drone services (SkyLift / SkyLift Plus): Operating revenue from SkyDrive's industrial cargo drone service for transport of construction materials, medical supplies, agricultural products, disaster relief, and hazardous materials. Offered as SkyLift Plus (turnkey from planning to reporting) and subscription contracts (customer-operated drone). Service was spun out to subsidiary AlterSky Inc. in July 2025.
  4. Drone show services (entertainment): Event-based drone show production (300-500 drone units) for sporting events, festivals, brand campaigns, and resort installations (e.g., Hoshino Resorts Tomamu first long-term resort drone show from December 2025). Operated by AlterSky subsidiary.
  5. Future commercial passenger air taxi services: Planned recurring air-taxi revenue from 2028 onward on intra-city routes (Tokyo 2030 vision; Osaka Bay; Oita Beppu/Yufuin; Penghu medical; Setouchi tourism; Dubai Palm Jumeirah). Operator-customer revenue split structure TBD.
  6. Investor/capital funding (pre-revenue): Pre-revenue company funded by Pre-Series D (¥8.3B / $56M, July 2025) led by MUFG Bank with Suzuki, JR East, JR Kyushu, Univance and others. Cumulative funding over ¥43B (~$290M). Additional Series C round (~¥8B) reported August 2024.

Pricing tiers

ModelBillingPrice
Unit PricingMulti-year contractAeroGulf Services (Dubai): 20 SD-05 units, 10 in 2028 + 10 in 2029 + option for 50 more; specific price per unit negotiated under LOI.
Unit PricingMulti-year contract7A Drones (Taiwan): 10 SD-05 units, 1 in 2028 + 4 in 2029 + 5 to be determined.
Unit PricingMulti-year contractAeroauto Global (Florida): 8 SD-05 units, 4 in 2028 + 4 in 2029.
Unit PricingMulti-year contractMASC (Kurashiki, Japan): 2 SD-05 units in 2028.
Unit PricingMulti-year contractWhitesky Aviation (Indonesia): pre-order up to 30 SD-05 units, operations targeted FY2028.
SubscriptionAnnualSkyLift cargo drone service: SkyLift Plus (turnkey planning-to-reporting) and subscription (customer-operated).

Go-to-market motion4 records

Distribution channels7 records

Marketing channels10 records

SkyDrive product offering

Product offering

Core offering

SkyDrive develops, manufactures, and sells the SKYDRIVE (Model SD-05) three-seat electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft — a compact multi-rotor air taxi designed for urban air mobility, tourism, and regional transport with a target commercial launch in 2028. The company also operates industrial cargo drone services (SkyLift) and drone show entertainment services through its subsidiary AlterSky Inc., and produces earlier SD-03 prototype aircraft plus the SD-XX concept vehicle. Manufacturing is performed by subsidiary Sky Works at Suzuki Motor Corporation's Iwata factory.

Product overview

SkyDrive is a Japanese eVTOL aircraft manufacturer and air mobility company with a platform-plus-modules product architecture centered on its flagship three-seat SKYDRIVE (Model SD-05) eVTOL aircraft. The SD-05 is the core commercial product targeting 2028 commercial launch, supported by earlier-generation prototypes (SD-03, the first public manned flying car in Japan, and the future SD-XX door-to-door concept). Alongside its eVTOL business, SkyDrive historically operated a SkyLift cargo drone service (now transferred to its subsidiary AlterSky Inc.) and a drone show service (also under AlterSky). Manufacturing is handled by subsidiary Sky Works Inc., which produces the SD-05 at Suzuki Motor Corporation's Iwata factory. The company's services span aircraft development and certification, vertiport operations (in partnership with Skyports for automation systems), and broader drone-related services including logistics and entertainment.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

  • SKYDRIVE (SD-05): SkyDrive's flagship three-seat electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, designed for compact urban air mobility operations and targeted for commercial launch in 2028.
  • SkyLift

Products and services

  • SKYDRIVE (Model SD-05) A three-seat electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft designed for urban air mobility. Features 12 motors and 12 three-blade rotors in a compact multi-rotor layout (~11.5 m × 11.3 m × 3 m), 1,400 kg maximum takeoff weight, 100 km/h max cruise speed, and 15-40 km range. Pursuing dual certification (JCAB and FAA) with commercial launch targeted for 2028. Sold via Letters of Intent to helicopter operators, regional transport companies, and government consortia for tourism, air taxi, emergency medical, and regional connectivity use cases.
  • SD-03 First public manned flying car prototype that successfully completed Japan's first public manned test flight in 2020 at SkyDrive's Toyota City test field. Features proprietary contra-rotating propeller (CRP) technology with four corner-mounted counter-rotating propeller units (8 total propellers) producing lift in one of the world's most compact airframes, with a maximum takeoff weight of approximately 400 kg (881 lb). Foundation for the SD-05 multi-rotor architecture.
  • SkyLift Cargo Drone Industrial cargo drone manufactured in Japan by SkyDrive (now operated by subsidiary AlterSky Inc.), capable of carrying up to 30 kg payload per flight (up to 700 kg per day) with a 30-meter hoist mechanism for non-landing cargo delivery. Body dimensions 1.9 m × 1.2 m × 1.0 m, 35 kg body weight, maximum flight range 2 km, maximum speed 36 km/h, wind resistance 7 m/s, flight time 9-15 min. Features redundant design for hazardous material transport (e.g., gasoline, chainsaws). Offered as SkyLift Plus (turnkey planning-to-reporting) and subscription (customer-operated drone with insurance included).
  • Drone Show Service Drone show planning and operation service using up to 500 drones for sporting events, festivals, brand campaigns, and resort installations. Operated by subsidiary AlterSky Inc. (spun out July 2025). Includes the first long-term/permanent drone show at a Japanese resort facility (Hoshino Resorts Tomamu, from December 2025), as well as events for stadiums (e.g., Nagoya Grampus, Ehime FC), beaches (Enoshima), and cultural festivals (VISIONOID 'Enoshima Legend: Tennyo and Ryujin' with ~35,000 attendees).

Quantifiable outcome

  • SD-05 reached 100 km/h in flight testing
  • +5 more outcomes

Companies that use SkyDrive

Customer profile

Named customers13 records

Segments7 records

Ideal customer profiles4 records

SkyDrive technology and API

Technology

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API
No
API docs
API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration2 records

AI capability9 records

Feature9 records

SkyDrive partnerships and signals

Strategic signal

Partnerships

34 partnerships are on record, tiered core, mid, flagship and low.

  • Tohoku Air Service (TAS, Tohoku Electric Power group)coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ Distributor · 19 May 2026LOI for purchase of 1 SD-05 aircraft with 2028 delivery. Plans to use for tourism, regional transport, medical services, and disaster response in the Tohoku region. Established helicopter operator since 1991. SkyDrive's first planned aircraft sale to a Japanese helicopter operator.
  • Space Aviation (helicopter services)midChannel Partner/ Reseller/ Distributor · 13 May 2026LOI signed May 13, 2026 for purchase of SKYDRIVE aircraft. Helicopter-related services provider.
  • Marubeni Corporation (Japan)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 8 May 2026Member of Japan's first eVTOL vertiport operations consortium for the Osakako Vertiport on Osaka Bay, alongside SkyDrive, Osaka Metro, Soracle, and Osaka prefectural/municipal governments. Targeting 100 eVTOL aircraft in Osaka Bay by 2035.
  • Soracle (Japan)midStrategic or Co-development Partner · 8 May 2026Member of Japan's first eVTOL vertiport operations consortium for Osakako Vertiport on Osaka Bay, with SkyDrive, Osaka Metro, Marubeni, and Osaka prefectural/municipal governments.
  • NEXCO West (West Nippon Expressway Company)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 24 April 2026Partnership agreement on advanced air mobility signed April 2026, exploring expressway-adjacent vertiport sites for SkyDrive's eVTOL operations in Western Japan.
  • Aeroauto Global, Inc. (Florida)coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ Distributor · 10 March 2026LOI signed at VERTICON 2026 Atlanta for 8 SD-05 aircraft (4 in 2028, 4 in 2029). Operates the world's first dedicated flying car showroom and sales platform in Florida; building out vertiport, charging, and pilot training infrastructure for the US Southeast.
  • SAI Flight Services / SAI Flight Support (South Carolina/Florida)coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ Distributor · 10 March 2026Strategic partnership expanded from South Carolina to Florida. Provides aircraft management, charter services, and pilot operations. Supports AAM operations in the US Southeast and integration with Greenville Downtown Airport.
  • Skyports Infrastructure (UK)coreTechnology or Integration · 6 March 2026Vertiport infrastructure partner. Deployed the Vertiport Automation System during SkyDrive's Tokyo demo flights (Feb 2026) and contributed to Osaka Round Table. Operates the Manhattan heliport and is building Dubai's first commercial AAM vertiport. Oita consortium member for vertiport siting analysis.
  • MASC (一般社団MASC, Kurashiki)midChannel Partner/ Reseller/ Distributor · 6 March 2026LOI for purchase of 2 SD-05 aircraft in 2028 for Setouchi area tourism (Kasaoka islands, Kojima/Washuzan), visiting medical, and remote-area logistics. Earlier pre-order agreement since November 2023; jointly opened 'Kurashiki Flying Car Exhibition Hall'.
  • Mitsubishi Estate Co., Ltd.coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 24 February 2026Tokyo demo flight partner (Feb 2026) at Tokyo Big Sight. Co-leads the Tokyo eVTOL implementation project under Tokyo Metropolitan Government subsidy. Provides urban-port insights, terminal design (Mitsubishi Jisho Sekkei), and access to Marunouchi and waterfront properties.
  • Kanematsu CorporationcoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 24 February 2026Tokyo demo flight partner and Tokyo eVTOL implementation project member. Vertiport installation and operation business in Japan. Member of Public-Private Council for Air Mobility Revolution and Osaka Round Table. Co-organiser of Kobe 'Minato-machi Kobe' symposium with SkyDrive.
  • Marut Drones Pvt Ltd (India)midStrategic or Co-development Partner · 19 February 2026Partnership with India's Hyderabad-based Marut Drones for air taxi development in the Indian market. Marut Drones is India's multi-utility drone company (agriculture, healthcare logistics, surveillance).
  • 7A Drones Co., Ltd. (新楽飛無人機, Taiwan)coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ Distributor · 12 February 2026LOI for purchase of 10 SD-05 aircraft (1 in 2028, 4 in 2029, 5 TBD) for emergency medical evacuation between Magong (Penghu main island) and Hujing Island, Taiwan. SkyDrive's first LOI in the Asian market. Earlier May 2025 partnership agreement for Penghu emergency medical services with ITRI.
  • Tokyo Metropolitan GovernmentflagshipOthers · 3 February 2026Lead public partner for Tokyo eVTOL Implementation Project (Phase I). Co-funded demo flights at Tokyo Big Sight (Feb 24-28, 2026). Roadmap targeting 2030 urban commercial operations. Selected SkyDrive + Joby Aviation + Nomura Real Estate consortium November 2025.
  • IHI Transport Machinery Co., Ltd.midStrategic or Co-development Partner · 24 January 2026Supporter agreement with the leading parking system company for vertiport parking infrastructure development.
  • SASMOS HET Technologies Ltd. (India)coreTechnology or Integration · 23 January 2026Long-term development contract for the Electrical Wiring Interconnection System (EWIS) of the SD-05. SASMOS provides system design, prototyping, certification support, and serial production readiness. Customers include Boeing, Airbus, Honeywell. Strengthens India-Japan aerospace partnership.
  • AeroGulf Services Company LLC (Dubai)coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ Distributor · 15 January 2026LOI for purchase of 20 SD-05 eVTOL aircraft (10 in 2028, 10 in 2029) with option for 50 more. Plans tourist flights to/from Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. First SkyDrive customer to convert pre-order into concrete price/delivery commitments outside Japan. Earlier MOUs in February 2025 (pre-order up to 50 units).
  • Sumitomo Wiring Systems (住友電装)midStrategic or Co-development Partner · 8 January 2026Supporter contract for joint development of air taxi-specific wire harnesses. Sumitomo Wiring brings automotive-grade mass-production wire harness design and quality management expertise.
  • Impact Startup Association (ISA, Japan)lowGTM or Marketing Partner · 18 December 2025SkyDrive joined ISA as a full member in December 2025. ISA is a Japanese ecosystem for impact startups addressing social challenges through sustainable growth.
  • Nomura Real Estate Development (Japan)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 10 November 2025Lead consortium partner in the Tokyo Metropolitan Government's 'eVTOL Implementation Project Phase I'. Selected to conduct feasibility studies, develop vertiport locations, and promote public acceptance for SkyDrive (and Joby Aviation) aircraft. Targeting 2028 commercial services and 2030 full urban commercialisation.
  • Joby Aviation (US)midStrategic or Co-development Partner · 10 November 2025Co-participant in the Tokyo Metropolitan Government's 'eVTOL Implementation Project Phase I' alongside SkyDrive and Nomura Real Estate. Joby aircraft to be deployed alongside SkyDrive SD-05 in Tokyo.
  • Kintetsu Group Holdings (Japan)midStrategic or Co-development Partner · 8 October 2025Selected promising vertiport candidate sites in the Shima area for SkyDrive's eVTOL operations. Part of the broader 'Rail x SkyDrive' strategy.
  • UAE Abu Dhabi Integrated Transport Centre (ITC)midStrategic or Co-development Partner · 8 October 2025Strategic partnership signed November 18, 2025 with Abu Dhabi's government transport authority. Supports SkyDrive's expansion into UAE air mobility market.
  • Air Silk Road Global Pilot Partnership ProgrammidStrategic or Co-development Partner · 8 September 2025Member of cross-border low-altitude travel network with partners including NexAvian, Skyports, Intercrus Indonesia, Singapore Economic Development Board. Targets Greater Bay Area, Japan, and ASEAN markets.
  • Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand + Bangkok Airways + Saha Group + Saha Tokyu CorporationmidOthers · 8 September 2025Public-private consultation participation for eVTOL operations in Thailand. SkyDrive joined Thai Civil Aviation Authority, Bangkok Airways, Saha Group, and Saha Tokyu Corporation to explore flying car deployment in Thailand.
  • JR East (East Japan Railway Company)flagshipStrategic or Co-development Partner · 29 August 2025Capital alliance announced July 2025; pre-order for 1 SKYDRIVE SD-05 aircraft (August 2025). Business collaboration for 'Rail x Flying Car' since February 2025, including launch of new tourism value at AZUMA FARM KOIWAI in spring 2026. Joint exhibition at TAKANAWA GATEWAY CITY (Aug 29-31, 2025). Pre-Series D investor.
  • Whitesky Aviation (PT Whitesky Aviation, Indonesia)coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ Distributor · 21 August 2025Strategic alliance and pre-order for up to 30 SD-05 units signed at HELI EXPO ASIA 2025. Plans air taxi from Cengkareng Heliport (Soekarno-Hatta), central Jakarta sightseeing by FY2028, and use in Indonesia's mining sector. Hub-and-spoke vertiport infrastructure.
  • DUC Hélices Propellers (France)coreTechnology or Integration · 8 August 2025Development agreement for high-performance carbon-composite rotors for SD-05. DUC has 30 years of expertise in carbon-fiber composite propellers and is EASA/FAA-certified. Initial product delivered in 4 months.
  • JR Kyushu (Kyushu Railway Company)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 4 July 2025Pre-Series D investor and consortium partner for Oita Prefecture's next-generation air mobility project (with SkyDrive, Kanematsu, JTB, Skyports). Targeting 2028 commercial sightseeing service in Beppu Bay and Beppu-Yufuin air taxi route. Feasibility study completed February 2026.
  • AEON Mall Co., Ltd.midGTM or Marketing Partner · 20 June 2025SkyDrive joined AEON Mall's 'Manabi no Banpaku' educational project across 136 stores nationwide (July-August 2025). Produced original VR flight video of SKYDRIVE at Expo Vertiport and hosted paper VR goggle events for children.
  • Stirling Dynamics Ltd (UK, Expleo Group)coreTechnology or Integration · 19 June 2025Development agreement for the Pilot Control Stick of the SD-05. Stirling Dynamics (35+ years in aerospace) supplies active inceptor with high-precision force feedback, ergonomic design, and pilot-in-the-loop capabilities. ITAR-approved and AS9100-certified.
  • Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI, Taiwan)midStrategic or Co-development Partner · 8 May 2025Partnership agreement with SkyDrive and 7A Drones to explore eVTOL operations for emergency medical transport across the Penghu Islands off Taiwan's west coast. Dispatch physicians within 10-km radius from Penghu Island.
  • Osaka Metro Co., Ltd. (大阪市高速電気軌道)flagshipStrategic or Co-development Partner · 26 August 2024Strategic partnership to develop flying cars and establish operational details, aiming for social implementation. Osaka Metro is investing in SkyDrive and led the construction of the dedicated 'Osakako Vertiport' (12,000 sq m facility, Osaka Bay). Co-leading Japan's first eVTOL vertiport operations consortium (with Soracle, Marubeni, Osaka prefectural and municipal governments) targeting ~100 eVTOL aircraft in Osaka Bay by 2035. Targets commercial service launch in 2028 at Morinomiya area.
  • Suzuki Motor CorporationflagshipStrategic or Co-development Partner · 10 January 2024Suzuki is SkyDrive's official production partner and strategic investor. March 2024: SD-05 production began at a Suzuki-owned factory in Iwata, Shizuoka. Suzuki invested via third-party allotment (January 2024) and participated in the Pre-Series D round (July 2025). Suzuki appointed Naomi Ishii as SkyDrive independent director (September 2025). Suzuki Vice Chairman Naomi Ishii serves as outside director. Joint exhibition at India trade event. Joint business and technological collaboration.

Scale indicators13 records

Recent moves10 records

Expansion highlights6 records

SkyDrive competitors and assessment

Company assessment

Direct peers

  • Joby Aviation: US-based eVTOL developer with a four-seat tiltpropeller aircraft, FAA certification progress, and the deepest capital base in the sector. Direct competitor co-deployed with SkyDrive in Tokyo's eVTOL Implementation Project Phase I; both target 2028 commercial urban air taxi operations.
  • Archer Aviation: US-based eVTOL manufacturer developing the Midnight four-seat tiltrotor aircraft for urban air mobility, with United Airlines and Stellantis as strategic backers. Competes with SkyDrive for global operator partnerships and city deployments.
  • Vertical Aerospace: UK-based eVTOL developer of the four-seat VX4 aircraft targeting intra-urban routes. Similar commercialization timeline (2028) and use-case profile to SkyDrive's SD-05, with comparable regulatory certification work under EASA.
  • Volocopter: Germany-based eVTOL developer of the multi-rotor VoloCity air taxi and larger VoloRegion models. Direct competitor to SkyDrive in the urban air taxi category, with similar compact multicopter design philosophy and EASA certification path.
  • EHang: China-based autonomous eVTOL developer with type certificate (TC) granted by CAAC for the EH216-S two-seat aircraft in 2023. Closest eVTOL competitor to have achieved full type certification, making it a benchmark for SkyDrive's JCAB path.
  • Lilium: Germany-based eVTOL developer of the 7-seat Lilium Jet using electric ducted fan technology. Targets longer-range regional air mobility versus SkyDrive's shorter intra-urban missions, but competes for the same operator/airline customer base.
  • Eve Air Mobility: Brazil-based (Embraer-backed) eVTOL developer of the four-seat eVTOL aircraft and a portfolio of urban air mobility services. Competes directly with SkyDrive for airline/operator partnerships and city route deployment.

Emerging players

  • Beta Technologies: US-based electric aviation company developing both the ALIA passenger eVTOL and CX300 cargo conventional takeoff aircraft. Partial overlap with SkyDrive on cargo drone and regional eVTOL use cases; both target 2025–2028 certification milestones.
  • AutoFlight: China-based eVTOL developer of the Prosperity tiltrotor and CarryAll cargo variants. Competes with SkyDrive in Asia and has demonstrated type certification progress with CAAC, particularly relevant given SkyDrive's Taiwan, Indonesia, and broader Asian expansion plans.

Broad incumbents

  • Toyota: SkyDrive is headquartered in Toyota City and benefits from proximity to Toyota's mobility ecosystem. While Toyota has not announced a competing eVTOL program of comparable scale, its automotive R&D and capital resources make it a potential incumbent competitor or partner in the Japan urban air mobility market.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat6 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

SkyDrive social profiles

Digital presence

SkyDrive compliance and trust

Trust signal

Compliance4 records

SkyDrive financial estimates

Financial estimate

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

SkyDrive leadership team

Management profile

Number of profiles

Profiles10 records

SkyDrive subsidiaries and ownership

Company hierarchy

Subsidiaries3 records

SkyDrive funding detail

Funding detail

Funding overview

Funding rounds8 records

Investors27 records

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

SkyDrive M&A and investment

M&A and investment

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about SkyDrive

What does SkyDrive do?

SkyDrive develops, manufactures, and sells the SKYDRIVE (Model SD-05) three-seat electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft — a compact multi-rotor air taxi designed for urban air mobility, tourism, and regional transport with a target commercial launch in 2028. The company also operates industrial cargo drone services (SkyLift) and drone show entertainment services through its subsidiary AlterSky Inc., and produces earlier SD-03 prototype aircraft plus the SD-XX concept vehicle. Manufacturing is performed by subsidiary Sky Works at Suzuki Motor Corporation's Iwata factory.

Is SkyDrive a public or private company?

SkyDrive is a private company. It is classified as venture growth investor backed and is currently operating.

When was SkyDrive founded?

SkyDrive was founded in 2018. It employs 101 to 250 people.

Where is SkyDrive based?

SkyDrive is headquartered in Toyota, Japan, in the Asia region.

How does SkyDrive make money?

Six revenue lines are on record. Aircraft sales (eVTOL SD-05) is the primary driver. The others are pre-orders and forward purchase agreements, cargo drone services (SkyLift / SkyLift Plus), drone show services (entertainment), future commercial passenger air taxi services and investor/capital funding (pre-revenue).

Who are SkyDrive's main competitors?

Direct peers on record are Joby Aviation, Archer Aviation, Vertical Aerospace, Volocopter, EHang, Lilium and Eve Air Mobility. Emerging players are Beta Technologies and AutoFlight. Toyota is listed as a broad incumbent.

Does SkyDrive have an API?

No public API is recorded for SkyDrive.

What industry is SkyDrive in?

SkyDrive's product category is Urban Air Mobility / eVTOL Aircraft. Its primary akta.pro industry code is IMABADAH, Electric & Hybrid-Electric Propulsion (eVTOL/Regional), with a secondary code of TLAFACAC, Helicopter Air Taxi / Urban Air Mobility (UAM) Services. Its NAICS code is 336411 and its SIC code is 3720.

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The future of tradingSkyDrive names Taiji Ono executive vice president, head of global businessSkyDrive named Taiji Ono executive vice president and head of global business to steer global strategy, commercial models, sales, partnerships, and government affairs. Ono previously spent nearly 17 years at Toyota and later joined a data platform company as CSO and business development GM.MorningstarSkyDrive Strengthens Executive Leadership to Accelerate Global Commercialization and Business ExpansionSkyDrive appointed Taiji Ono as executive vice president and Gonzalo Ramos as global commercial officer. The appointments aim to accelerate commercialization, with pre-orders and letters of intent totaling 451 aircraft for the SKYDRIVE model. The company targets commercial operations in 2028.PrtimesSkyDrive won the 'Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Award' at the Japan Startup Awards 2026.SkyDrive won the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Award at the Japan Startup Awards 2026. The company, founded in 2018, develops compact flying cars and conducted Japan's first public manned flight test in 2020. It aims to launch service in 2028.DronelifeSkyDrive and Verty Target Commercial eVTOL Operations in South Korea by 2028SkyDrive and South Korean eVTOL operator Verty signed an MOU to prepare commercial operations of SkyDrive's three-seat SD-05 aircraft in South Korea, targeting 2028. The partnership will study tourism and regional transportation routes, including Jeju Island and Seoul metropolitan areas. Verty aims to become South Korea's first eVTOL operator with an Air Operator Certificate.MorningstarSkyDrive Partners with South Korea’s Verty to Target Commercial eVTOL Operations by 2028SkyDrive signed an MOU with South Korean operator Verty to prepare commercial deployment of its SKYDRIVE eVTOL in South Korea by 2028. The partnership will launch a joint feasibility study covering flight safety, infrastructure, and operational routes, including scenic and inter-city flights. Verty aims to become South Korea's first eVTOL operator with an Air Operator Certificate.Business Wire BlogSkyDrive Wins Prestigious Ministry Award at Japan Startup Awards 2026SkyDrive Inc. received the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Award at the Japan Startup Awards 2026 for its compact eVTOL aircraft. The company has conducted over 300 accident-free flight tests and aims for a commercial launch in 2028.WebWireVisit to Taiwan Civil Aeronautics Administration (CAA)to Exchange Views on Type Certificationand the Commercial Deployment of eVTOLSkyDrive held a discussion with Taiwan's Civil Aeronautics Administration, joined by business partner 7A Drones and the Industrial Technology Research Institute, on eVTOL type certification and commercial deployment. The exchange covered operational prospects, institutional frameworks and certification steps, with SkyDrive, ITRI and 7A Drones working on a public-private partnership and an eVTOL emergency medical transport model in Taiwan's Penghu Islands.Indian Transport and Logistics NewsSkyDrive maps three eVTOL use cases for IndiaSkyDrive, a Japanese eVTOL developer, said on August 25 it will evaluate initial operational routes for medical logistics services in India, in partnership with Air India and Suzuki Motor Corporation, following an MoU signed July 31, 2026. The programme targets three use cases: transporting radioactive isotopes from Mumbai to hospitals, inter-hospital transport in Delhi NCR, and emergency aircraft parts delivery.AutoevolutionJapanese eVTOL Maker SkyDrive and Suzuki Bring eVTOL Medical Logistics to IndiaSkyDrive, Suzuki and Air India signed a memorandum of understanding to evaluate routes for eVTOL medical logistics services in India, covering emergency and organ transport in the Delhi NCR, radioactive isotope transport from Mumbai, and aircraft parts delivery to maintenance bases. SkyDrive eVTOLs are expected to cover the Delhi NCR route in 10 to 15 minutes versus 30 to 90 minutes for ambulances.AInvestAn MoU for a Feasibility Study Is Not a Business PlanSkyDrive Inc, a private Japanese eVTOL developer, signed a memorandum of understanding with Air India and Suzuki Motor Corporation to study electric flying ambulance routes for medical logistics around Mumbai. The study is non-binding, with no commitment to commercial operations, and targets 2028 service. SkyDrive has raised over ¥43 billion and more than 380 pre-orders across seven countries.