Embraer has announced a new branded division will oversee the development of its so-called flying cars, known as electric vertical take-off and landing vehicles (eVTOL).
The aerospace conglomerate has also appointed a separate chief executive, Andre Stein, to lead the newly established ‘Eve Urban Air Mobility’ division, which it describes as a new, independent entity.
Stein is a former head of strategy for EmbraerX and his appointment signals the planemaker’s increasing push to diversify away from traditional aircraft.
Francisco Gomes Neto, president and CEO of Embraer, said now was the right time to establish Eve as an independent company.
“We value the vast potential of the UAM market, as it represents a new business segment in which we foresee significant opportunities for Embraer,” he said.
“Innovation and diversification are key pillars of Embraer’s new strategic plan, which will increase revenue and improve profitability over the next few years.
“That is why I am eager to announce Eve, the first company to graduate from EmbraerX. Eve stands primed to create a new frontier in transportation with intelligent, environmentally friendly, autonomous-ready aircraft and the associated ubiquitous support and urban air traffic management solutions.”
EmbraerX has sought to accelerate its ambitions in the UAM space through membership of the Uber Elevate Network, founded in 2017.
According to Eric Allison, head of Uber Elevate, the launch of Eve would help better commercialise Embraer’s eVTOL designs, while also building on its design, certification, and delivery capability.
“We look forward to our continued partnership to make aerial ridesharing a reality,” Allison added.
Linda Weaving
says:‘Flying cars’. Otherwise known as helicopters or gyrocopters. ? Not to be flown by your average Joe I hope. How do they propose to licence and police these things? Imagine the traffic accidents from peak hour in the sky! Or from hoons flying like nitwits!