Flying taxis by Maruti Suzuki? Indian auto giant to develop electric air copters with Japan’s Suzuki

Maruti Suzuki, in collaboration with its parent company Suzuki, is embarking on a groundbreaking venture to develop electric air copters, as reported by Times of India. These innovative air vehicles, larger than drones but smaller than traditional helicopters, will be designed to accommodate at least three individuals, including the pilot. With a vision to introduce cutting-edge mobility solutions, Maruti Suzuki initially plans to launch electric air copters in Japan and the US, with future expansion into the Indian market. These air taxis hold the potential to revolutionize transportation, offering swift and efficient urban mobility solutions. Maruti is not only targeting sales in India but also exploring the possibility of local manufacturing to enhance cost-effectiveness. Kento Ogura, assistant manager at Suzuki Motor, disclosed ongoing discussions with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to materialize this ambitious project. Named SkyDrive, the electric air copters are slated for unveiling at the 2025 Osaka Expo in Japan, with plans for subsequent introduction in India as part of the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Market research is currently underway in India to gauge potential customer interest and establish strategic partnerships. Ogura emphasized the importance of affordability for the success of air copters in the Indian market. Weighing in at 1.4 tonnes during take-off, the air copter boasts nearly half the weight of conventional helicopters, enabling it to utilize building rooftops for take-off and landing. Furthermore, the electrification of these vehicles has led to a significant reduction in the number of aircraft parts, thereby lowering manufacturing and maintenance costs. Maruti Suzuki’s foray into electric air copters marks a significant milestone in the realm of urban mobility, promising innovative solutions to address the challenges of modern transportation. As discussions progress with regulatory bodies and market research unfolds, anticipation builds for the potential impact of these futuristic air taxis on the Indian landscape.