SkyDrive has started production of its SkyDrive SD-05 aircraft at Suzuki Motor Corporation's manufacturing plant in Iwata-city, Shizuoka, Japan.

The first riveting ceremony took place on 6 March, and was attended by representative director and president of Suzuki Toshihiro Suzuki, SkyDrive CEO Tomohiro Fukuzawa, all employees from Sky Works and other representatives. The ceremony marked the beginning of production.

The establishment of Sky Works, SkyDrive's manufacturing arm, in September 2023 and the partnership with Suzuki are significant steps towards the delivery of aerial mobility solutions. There should be capacity to produce up to 100 eVTOLs per year.

Fukuzawa says: "Partnering with Suzuki, a renowned automotive manufacturer, is a momentous occasion for SkyDrive. It is the beginning of a new phase. We share a goal of quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, making it an ideal partner in our quest to revolutionise urban air mobility."

Nobuo Kishi, president of Sky Works, adds: "We are thrilled to begin production of the SkyDrive SD-05 with Suzuki's manufacturing specialists. This facility allows us to produce high-quality eVTOLs efficiently and effectively, ensuring we meet the needs of our customers."

SkyDrive plans to operate its eVTOL aircraft SkyDrive at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan to showcase the potential of its eVTOL technology.