On November 1, 2024 the electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOL)—often called a flying car—developed by U.S.-based Joby Aviation, a partner of Toyota, completed its first test flight in Japan.
eVTOLs are a blend of helicopter, drone, and small airplane technologies. These aircraft are designed to serve as flying taxis for commuting, business travel, and leisure. They are ultra-quiet, emission-free, and built with safety in mind.
The partnership between Joby CEO JoeBen Bevirt and Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda began in 2019, driven by their shared vision of improving lives through advanced air mobility. Their collaboration has grown stronger over the years.
This recent flight marked the first time the Joby eVTOL flew outside the U.S. At a press conference the following day, Toyoda and Bevirt reaffirmed their commitment, calling this flight the true beginning of their journey and pledging deeper cooperation.
In this news feature, viewers are given a look inside the flying car and Joby’s U.S.-based manufacturing plant—typically off-limits to cameras. The video highlights how Toyota's engineering and its renowned Toyota Production System (TPS) are being integrated into the production process.
Toyota’s vision for air mobility is deeply rooted in its history. Nearly a century ago, Toyota Group founder Sakichi Toyoda offered a prize (worth over 10 billion yen today) to support the development of a battery capable of powering flight across the Pacific Ocean.
Later, Kiichiro Toyoda invested in aircraft R&D alongside car manufacturing. Honorary Chairman Shoichiro Toyoda also collaborated with a U.S. company to create the world’s first electronically controlled aero piston engine.
This enduring dream of taking to the skies has been passed down through four generations at Toyota. Chairman Toyoda emphasized that the goal isn't just to create flying vehicles but to make air mobility accessible to everyone—delivering “Mobility for All.” He reaffirmed this mission with CEO Bevirt, who shares his dream.
The Joby eVTOL is progressing steadily toward commercial use, with plans to launch flying taxi services in Dubai by 2026.
In a fun moment at the end of the video, Chairman Toyoda takes JoeBen for a joyride and celebrates the successful flight with some tire-spinning “donuts.” Be sure to catch it!