Ohio, known for its rich aviation history, will soon become a hub for manufacturing cutting-edge electric planes that take off and land vertically. Joby Aviation Inc., a leading eVTOL aircraft developer, has reached an agreement with the state to establish its first scaled manufacturing facility in the Ohio River Valley.
The decision to locate the facility at Dayton International Airport is significant, as it is near Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratories. This proximity showcases Ohio’s commitment to aviation innovation and will create numerous job opportunities in the area.
Joby’s electric planes are designed to transport a pilot and four passengers at speeds of up to 200 miles per hour, with a maximum range of 100 miles. The aircraft’s quiet noise profile makes it suitable for urban environments. The company plans to deploy these planes in aerial ridesharing networks by 2025.
This endeavor is supported by partnerships with major companies such as Toyota, Delta Airlines, Intel, and Uber. Joby is also receiving up to $325 million in incentives from the state of Ohio, its economic development office, and local government, along with $500 million of its own funds. The U.S. Department of Energy has invited Joby to apply for a loan to support the development of the facility as a clean energy project.
The establishment of Joby’s manufacturing facility in Ohio solidifies the state’s position as a leader in aviation manufacturing. Ohio has a strong manufacturing workforce, making it an ideal location for the production of eVTOL aircraft. The company’s CEO, JoeBen Bevirt, emphasized the importance of Ohio’s manufacturing prowess in their decision-making process.
Ohio’s dedication to aviation has played a crucial role in its resilience through economic challenges in the past. The state’s leaders see this new venture as a way to further boost the local economy and create a lasting legacy of innovation. The manufacturing facility is expected to begin construction in 2024, with production starting in 2025.
Ohio’s efforts to attract high-profile aerospace projects extend beyond the manufacturing sector. State leaders are making a bipartisan appeal to lure the U.S. Air Force’s new U.S. Space Command headquarters or Space Force units to Ohio, capitalizing on the state’s aerospace heritage and the accomplishments of its native astronauts.
Overall, Ohio’s partnership with Joby Aviation signifies a significant step towards the widespread adoption of eVTOL aircraft as a mode of transportation. The state’s commitment to innovation and manufacturing excellence ensures a promising future for the development of this cutting-edge technology.
Sources:
– AP News: [Ohio to manufacture cutting-edge electric planes](source)
– Joby Aviation: [Company Overview](source)