Japanese Investors Believe Increased Global Urbanisation is Set to Fuel Growth in eVTOL Sector - Seite 2

More than three in four (77%) of Japanese investors identified the use of pilots as the key to guaranteeing increased public confidence while 61% say more successful trials of passenger and drone services will be important. The same number (61%) want evidence of more regulatory improvements. Around 55% point to more news about successes in the sector and 45% are hoping for the endorsement of the sector by major companies and investors.

The study found 23% of Japanese investors believe search and rescue will be the first practical use of eVTOLs while 18% think eVTOLs will be used first for supplying remote areas and 15% believe they will first be used for disaster relief. The same number (15%) believe the first use of eVTOLS will be for passenger transport and 13% believe they will be used first for organ transport.

Horizon is targeting the future production of a manned seven-seat capacity hybrid electric eVTOL called the Cavorite X7 which includes room for a pilot and six passengers. It has been developed in response to demand from potential customers in the medevac, business aviation and commercial cargo sectors.

Brandon Robinson, CEO of Horizon Aircraft, said: “As cities globally grapple with surging populations and escalating traffic congestion, Japanese investors are increasingly recognising the transformative potential of eVTOLs in addressing these challenges. Many believe they are witnessing an acceleration toward the launch of the first commercial eVTOL passenger routes, and with substantial investment already pouring in, the sector is poised for further growth as ongoing developments in technology and regulation create new investment opportunities in this emerging market that is set to revolutionise urban transportation.”

Its Cavorite X7 aircraft is expected to have a gross weight of an estimated 5,500 lbs with a projected useful load of 1,500 lbs. With an estimated maximum speed of 250 miles per hour and an average range of over 500 miles with fuel reserves, Horizon believes that this experimental aircraft, if eventually licensed for commercial use, would be well-positioned to excel in medical evacuation, critical supply delivery, disaster relief, and special military missions. The Company believes that the proposed aircraft would also be attractive for Regional Air Mobility – moving people and cargo 50 to 500 miles.