Eve Air Mobility has selected four new suppliers for its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Thales will offer an aerial data system that includes sensors and a computer, while Honeywell will be responsible for providing guidance, navigation and external lighting systems. RECARO Aircraft Seating will equip the eVTOL with seats and FACC will supply the horizontal and vertical stabilizer, including the rudder and elevator.
“We remain on schedule with our master plan and continue to build a robust list of qualified suppliers for our eVTOL,” says Johann Bordais, CEO of Eve. “We have been very conscientious in establishing a long-term working relationship with each of our suppliers. Each agreement covers the aircraft's life cycle, including prototype, production, after-sales service and operational . We look forward to working with Thales, Honeywell, RECARO and FACC as we move towards entry into service in 2026 and beyond.”
Honeywell will provide guidance and navigation products, including magnetometers, GPS-aided attitude and heading reference systems, and inertial reference systems, all developed from decades of engineering and manufacturing experience. These systems will transmit information and assist pilots and other onboard mechanisms to ensure a safe and efficient flight. The company will also be in charge of the aircraft's external lighting.
Thales will offer air data solutions, comprised of sensors and computers that collect critical data such as air speed, altitude and environmental conditions. The solution transmits information to pilots and onboard systems, ensuring a safe and efficient flight in all weather conditions.
RECARO Aircraft Seating – a global supplier of high-quality seats to airlines and aircraft and eVTOL manufacturers – was selected to design, certify and produce the four enger seats and pilot seat. RECARO is widely recognized for its product innovation, award-winning customer service and commitment to safety, efficiency and sustainable practices.
FACC was chosen to lead the development and production of the eVTOL's horizontal and vertical stabilizers, including its rudder, elevator and the aircraft's aileron. FACC is recognized for the production of lightweight components, using innovative manufacturing techniques and technologies.
The new suppliers Garmin, Liebherr Aerospace and Intergalactic, which were announced in October 2023, and Nidec Aerospace LLC, a t venture between Nidec Corporation and Embraer, BAE Systems and DUC Hélices Propellers, whose partnerships were disclosed in Paris Air Show of the same year.
Eve's eVTOL uses a takeoff and cruise configuration (Lift + Cruise) with dedicated rotors for vertical flight and fixed wings for cruising, without the need for transition components during flight. The latest concept includes an electric thruster powered by dual electric motors that provide propulsion redundancy, ensuring high performance and safety. In addition to offering several advantages, such as low operating costs, fewer parts, optimized structures and systems, it was developed to offer thrust efficiency with low noise.
In July, Eve revealed that its first eVTOL factory will be established in the city of Taubaté, in São Paulo. The company has begun assembling the first full-scale eVTOL prototype, which will continue the testing campaign in 2024. Eve's eVTOL is scheduled for first deliveries and entry into service in 2026.
In parallel, Eve continues to develop a broad portfolio of agnostic solutions, including unique Urban Air Traffic Management (Urban ATM) software to optimize and expand Urban Air Mobility operations around the world.
Read also
- Ryanair is willing to keep 737 MAX units rejected by US companies
- United and Alaska Airlines resume Boeing 737 MAX 9 flights after inspections
- Amid Boeing delays, United Airlines CEO opens negotiations with Airbus
