Uber in the Air

This might just be what you’ll be using to commute to work in the near future.

What do you get if you combine the best features of a helicopter, a drone, electric propulson, and an Uber-like transportation service?

A new startup company named EmbraerX believes that they have the answer: a to-be-named eVTOL concept, recently introduced at Uber Elevate 2018 in Los Angeles, California. The eVTOL (vertical takeoff and landing) concept is envisioned as an urban, air-based Uber service to complement Uber’s traditional ground-based service.

The eVTOL concept would operate from urban helipads or suburban open spaces, similar to a helicopter. However, it would derive its flying capabilities from eight top-mounted propellers (plus a rearmounted propeller) that are large facsimiles of drone propellers, which would be powered by an electric motor to minimise noise and pollution.

If EmbraerX sounds familiar, it is because it is related to Embraer, the Brazilian aircraft manufacturer known for their business jets and commercial aircraft. EmbraerX is a U.S. subsidiary dedicated to developing disruptive solutions to age-old transportation problems. The company worked with potential customers to develop the eVTOL concept around the requirements for safety, passenger experience, affordability, and low noise and emission footprint.

“We are developing solutions to bring on-demand air transportation to urban areas to improve quality of life for millions of people. Our collaboration with key stakeholders will accelerate the arrival of this new ecosystem,” said Antonio Campello, President & CEO of EmbraerX.

Perhaps one day in the not-so-distant future, when ordering up an Uber, you will see a new option to get from your origin to your destination via eVTOL. If you enjoy the ride, be sure to rate it five stars.