Toyota Pledges ¥35 Billion for 200-Unit Flying Taxi JV with Joby Aviation
TM•Toyota will invest ¥35 billion to form a 50/50 joint venture with Joby Aviation to manufacture electric air taxis at a new Aichi facility, targeting 200 units annually from late 2027. The venture will apply Toyota Production System methods to streamline assembly and prepare for future capacity expansions.
1. JV Structure and Investment
The joint venture will be equally owned by Toyota and Joby Aviation, with Toyota committing ¥35 billion in capital. Joby will contribute its eVTOL aircraft design and certification knowledge, while Toyota will provide factory infrastructure and operational management.
2. Production Facility and Timeline
The venture plans to establish its production line at Toyota’s Aichi plant, retrofitting existing space for eVTOL assembly. Initial deliveries of the flying taxis are slated for late 2027 following facility setup and pilot runs.
3. Capacity and Manufacturing Process
At full operational capability, the JV aims to produce 200 electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft per year. Assembly will follow the Toyota Production System, emphasizing modular manufacturing and just-in-time logistics to maintain cost efficiency.
4. Strategic Rationale and Outlook
This partnership marks Toyota’s entry into the urban air mobility sector, diversifying beyond automotive manufacturing. Leveraging Toyota’s scale and Joby’s aircraft expertise, the venture seeks to position both companies for growth in emerging aerial transportation markets.
