VoltAero, the French pioneer in electric-hybrid aviation and developer of the Cassio aircraft family, today signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with SEDC Energy (SEDCE) of Malaysia and France’s ACI Groupe, marking a major step toward establishing a regional hybrid-electric aircraft assembly facility and innovation center in the Malaysian state of Sarawak.
As part of this agreement, SEDCE and ACI Groupe have expressed their interest in acquiring an equity stake in VoltAero and becoming a strategic investor. The investment forms the foundation of a broader strategic partnership aimed at supporting clean aviation development across the Asia-Pacific region.
The agreement outlines a shared vision to create a state-of-the-art assembly center in Sarawak for VoltAero’s Cassio aircraft, which utilizes electric-hybrid propulsion for safe, quiet, efficient and eco-friendly regional transportation, as well as for pilot training.
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Download free sample pages“This partnership is a major milestone for VoltAero and for the global transition to air transportation with reduced emissions,” said Jean Botti, CEO and Chief Technical Officer of VoltAero. “Establishing a regional hub in Malaysia allows us to expand our production capacity, deliver on regional demand, and transfer technology and skills to a key part of the world that is embracing sustainable aviation."
Tan Sri Datuk Amar (Dr) Haji Abdul Aziz bin Dato Haji Husain, the Chairman of SEDC Energy, explained that Sarawak is uniquely positioned to be a leader in sustainable technology and innovation.
“Through this collaboration with VoltAero, Malaysia will be at the forefront of next-generation aviation manufacturing and clean energy development,” stated Abdul Aziz. “It supports the broader regional ambitions to position Malaysia as a green aviation hub, aligned with national goals for decarbonization, technology transfer and skilled workforce development.”
Philippe Riviere, the ACI Groupe’s President and CEO, added: “We are proud to partner with VoltAero and SEDC Energy to bring electric-hybrid aviation to the Asia-Pacific region. This project reflects our shared belief in a clean, connected future for global air transport."
Key elements of the proposed collaboration include:
VoltAero’s Cassio electric-hybrid aircraft family is being developed as a highly capable and reliable product line for regional commercial operators, air taxi/charter companies, private owners, as well as in utility-category service for cargo, postal delivery and medical evacuation (Medevac) applications. It will be produced in three versions: the Cassio 330 with up to five seats; the Cassio 480 with six seats; and the 10-12-seat Cassio 600.
