NazirJoby Aviation is currently on the brink of finalizing the location for its upcoming electric aircraft factory, with Ohio and North Carolina emerging as the final contenders, according to anonymous sources familiar with the matter, speaking to TechCrunch.
The California-based startup, which made its way into the public domain in 2021 through a merger with a special purpose acquisition company, specializes in developing electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
These eVTOL aircraft are intended for both commercial service and to cater to the needs of the U.S. Department of Defense.
Joby Aviation has also secured a partnership with Delta Air Lines, focusing on providing airline services between airports, with initial deployment set for New York and Los Angeles.
While currently operating out of a 120,000-square-foot facility at Marina Municipal Airport in Marina, California, which serves as a hub for producing pilot prototypes and conducting aircraft testing, Joby is gearing up for substantial expansion.
The company is now contemplating the construction of a large-scale manufacturing facility spanning 580,000 square feet.
The decision regarding the facility’s location has been under consideration for several months, with various states competing for the project.
Although states like California and Michigan were initially in the running, TechCrunch’s sources suggest that Ohio and North Carolina have emerged as the primary candidates. Notably, Marina and Detroit are no longer being considered.
In response to queries about the factory’s location, Joby responded by stating that no final decision has been reached. A company spokesperson stated, “We have received a considerable amount of interest from states around the country and we continue to work to secure the very best long-term solution and incentive package.”
North Carolina, which has already attracted significant manufacturing investments, is an attractive choice.
Notably, Toyota’s $5.9 billion investment in an electric vehicle battery factory is ongoing in the state. Furthermore, North Carolina has exhibited interest in fostering advanced aviation companies, as exemplified by the arrival of Chinese firm EHang, which showcased its autonomous eVTOL air taxi in the region.
On the other hand, Ohio has a more established connection with Joby. The company is registered in the state and operates an electric aircraft technology simulator in the Dayton-Springfield region.
This presence in Ohio could also be advantageous due to its proximity to the Air Force’s Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, given Joby’s existing collaboration with the U.S. Air Force. Ohio has purportedly offered an incentive package of $110 million to entice the company.
The establishment of this new manufacturing facility is anticipated to be a crucial factor in achieving significant milestones for Joby Aviation.
The company recently attained a Special Airworthiness Certificate from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration, paving the way for flight testing of its first production prototype aircraft.
This certification is pivotal in gaining full FAA certification, a prerequisite for commencing commercial operations by 2025.
Joby’s partnership with Toyota also plays a substantial role in its operations. The automotive giant is the company’s most significant external investor, with an investment of around $400 million.
Additionally, both companies have an agreement in place where Toyota will supply key components for Joby’s aircraft.
Joby Aviation Aircraft Factory: All We Know
Joby Aviation is a company that aims to revolutionize urban mobility with its electric aircraft. The company has recently announced its plans to build its first major factory in Ohio, where it will produce up to 500 eVTOLs per year. This is a significant milestone for the company and the industry, as it shows the progress and potential of electric aviation.
Joby Aviation’s electric aircraft is designed to take off and land vertically, like a helicopter, but fly faster and quieter, like a plane. It can carry up to four passengers and a pilot, and travel up to 240 km on a single charge. It has six electric motors that power six rotors, which can tilt to enable different modes of flight. The aircraft is also equipped with a parachute system for safety.
The company claims that its electric aircraft will offer a faster, cleaner, and smarter way to move people through their lives. By using electric propulsion, the aircraft will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and noise pollution, compared to conventional helicopters or cars. By using vertical takeoff and landing, the aircraft will avoid traffic congestion and infrastructure limitations, and access more locations. By using advanced software and sensors, the aircraft will enhance safety and efficiency, and eventually enable autonomous flight.
Joby Aviation has been developing its electric aircraft for over a decade, and has received funding from investors such as Toyota, Intel, JetBlue, and Uber. The company has also received certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in June 2023, which is a crucial step for commercial operation. The company plans to launch its air taxi service in 2026, starting with Los Angeles, Miami, New York, and San Francisco.
The decision to build its factory in Ohio is influenced by several factors. Ohio is a state with a rich history and culture of aviation, as it is the home of the Wright brothers, who invented the first airplane. Ohio also offers a skilled workforce, a supportive government, and a strategic location for distribution and logistics. Joby Aviation expects to create up to 2,000 jobs at its factory, and contribute to the economic development of the region.
Joby Aviation’s electric aircraft factory is an example of how technology can transform transportation and society. It is a vision of a future where people can fly above the gridlock, and enjoy a faster, cleaner, and smarter way to travel.
It is also a challenge for the company and the industry to overcome the technical, regulatory, and social barriers that may hinder the adoption of electric aviation. Joby Aviation hopes to inspire others to join its mission of making the world more connected and sustainable.
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