SkyDrive Partners with DUC Helices to Develop Rotor for SKYDRIVE SD-05

SkyDrive Inc. (“SkyDrive”), a leading eVTOL (*1) aircraft manufacturer based in Japan, announced that the company has started working with DUC Hélices Propellers to develop rotors for its eVTOL SKYDRIVE (SkyDrive Model SD-05).

SkyDrive is working to fulfil its mission of “taking the lead in the once-in-a-century mobility revolution” and its vision of creating a future in which the general public, in Japan and around the world, use eVTOLs to meet their daily mobility needs.

DUC Hélices Propellers specializes in high-performance carbon composite propellers and rotors, combining expertise in aerodynamics and composite materials. DUC Hélices offers products for airplanes, helicopters and multicopters. The company is globally recognized for its commitment to aviation safety, with certifications from EASA, FAA, and other international authorities.

The SKYDRIVE multi-rotor eVTOL aircraft is propelled by 12 motors and three-bladed rotors. In such multi-rotor eVTOL configurations, the rotors are critically important components that generate lift and thrust, enabling precise control of the aircraft’s attitude and movement via individual rotor speed adjustments. This distributed propulsion system also significantly contributes to noise reduction, redundancy, and overall flight safety.

By developing and utilizing flight-critical rotors in collaboration with DUC Hélices Propellers, SkyDrive will accelerate the development and testing of safe aircraft. 

Comments
Arnaud Coville, Chief Development Officer of SkyDrive 
“I am very pleased to be working with DUC Hélices to develop and manufacture rotors for the SKYDRIVE SD-05. DUC Hélices has already proven to be incredibly agile; leveraging their in-house expertise and partner capabilities, they delivered initial products within four months. These products have achieved strong performance on our test rigs, marking a significant milestone in advancing our aircraft development toward type certification.”

Vincent Duqueine, President of DUC Hélices Propellers
“We at DUC Hélices are proud to be part of the SkyDrive adventure! Our rich history, spanning nearly 30 years of expertise in aeronautical composites, has prepared us to take on this major challenge. Developing rotors for SkyDrive’s eVTOL vehicle is an incredible opportunity to put our expertise to work for the future of air mobility.
The challenge is significant: designing and producing rotors that deliver performance while minimizing vibration and noise, making urban air mobility quiet and safe for all.
It’s a great recognition that SkyDrive has chosen us for this mission, and we look forward to contributing to the growth of this new mode of transportation. The future of aviation is underway, and we’re on board.“