Volocopter-Geely Joint Venture Brings UAM to China
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Volocopter and Aerofugia, a subsidiary of China's innovation-driven group Geely Technology Group, announced the finalization of their joint venture (JV) company to introduce UAM in China. Operating under Volocopter (Chengdu) Technology, (Volocopter Chengdu), the JV has signed an agreement to purchase 150 Volocopter aircraft. Geely Holding Group's CEO, Daniel Li Donghui, has joined Volocopter's Advisory Board.
The JV will work closely with the aviation, transportation, and government agencies in Chengdu and other parts of mainland China to bring urban air mobility to the country within the next three to five years. Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan Province and a significant economic, cultural, and transportation hub in Western China. It is also a key manufacturing base for Geely – one of many great synergies the JV will profit from on top of Geely’s production capability and industrial distribution expertise.
At the opening ceremony, Volocopter also signed a Contract Manufacturing Agreement with Volocopter Chengdu and General Aviation Manufactory Base of Geely Technology to produce Volocopter's aircraft and parts in China. This production agreement will satisfy the fast-growing demand for air taxi services after commercial launch in China.
Jing Chao, Chairman of Volocopter Chengdu, shares the same sentiment. He says, “With its establishment, Volocopter Chengdu can accelerate the deployment of air taxis and UAM business. UAM is an important part of the new aviation industry, which coincides with Aerofugia's technical route and business plan of 'new energy, vertical landing and take-off, and autonomous driving.’”
