Uber sets launch date for electric flying taxi.

VTV.vn - By the end of 2026, Uber will launch an electric flying taxi service in Dubai through a partnership with Joby, allowing users to easily book rides via the platform's app.

The global urban transportation landscape is poised to enter a new era as the world's largest ride-hailing platform officially confirms its plans to enter the three-dimensional space. According to its newly announced strategic roadmap, Uber will launch its first commercial flying taxi service in the bustling economic hub of Dubai by the end of 2026. This groundbreaking project, named Uber Air, is the result of extensive research and development collaboration with Joby Aviation, a leading California-based technology company specializing in electric vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) vehicles. The launch of this service in the UAE's megacity not only marks a technological breakthrough but also realizes the aspiration for seamless transportation connectivity.

Uber users in Dubai can book flights on Joby Aviation's electric flying taxis as early as this year. Source: Uber

Users can directly book flights on flying taxis through the familiar Uber app. Sachin Kansal, Uber's Chief Product Officer, shared: "With Uber Air, passengers can book Joby's electric flying taxis with just a familiar tap on the Uber app, seamlessly connecting all journeys and making travel from the ground to the sky easier." In fact, this partnership blossomed in 2019. By 2021, Joby had acquired Uber's entire Elevate division, the unit responsible for urban air mobility, thereby merging its hardware manufacturing capabilities with its massive software platform.

Commenting on the project's impact, Eric Allison, Product Director at Joby Aviation, stated that the company is building an entirely new layer of urban transportation. "We're focused on creating a smooth, seamless flight experience that integrates seamlessly with city life. Partnering with Uber makes this new mode of transportation familiar and accessible, connecting the ground and the sky in a system designed to save time and fit into existing commuting habits," Allison emphasized.

The most striking feature attracting expert attention is the vehicle's cutting-edge aerodynamic design. Breaking the stereotype of bulky traditional helicopters, Joby's flying taxi boasts a sleek, modern design, a perfect blend of small aircraft and next-generation helicopters. The vehicle is equipped with a streamlined six-rotor electric system, optimizing lift and stability. The spacious cabin accommodates four passengers and their luggage, providing a superior comfort experience. A highlight of the interior architecture is the large arched windows, allowing passengers to admire the magnificent cityscapes from above throughout their journey.

From a technical and environmental standpoint, this all-electric flying taxi model offers outstanding advantages. Completely different from conventional internal combustion engines that produce deafening noise, Joby's vehicle operates almost silently, without disrupting the lives of residents below. The metallic white paint not only provides a luxurious appearance but also blends seamlessly with modern architectural landscapes. Under the control of a team of professional commercial pilots, the vehicle boasts incredibly impressive performance specifications. The aircraft can reach a maximum speed of over 320 km/h, with a practical range of approximately 160 km per full charge. This is considered the perfect solution to bridge geographical distances, transforming journeys that used to take hours stuck in traffic into mere minutes.

The Dubai market was chosen as the first launchpad due to its integrated infrastructure and astute planning. Here, the business alliance plans to invest in the construction of four dedicated landing sites located in prime locations, including: Dubai International Airport, Dubai Mall, Atlantis The Royal resort in Palm Jumeirah, and the American University in Dubai. This network will create a closed loop system, perfectly serving high-end travel needs.

Regarding the cost, Uber stated that its platform will display a detailed, all-inclusive price per passenger from the moment of booking. Surprisingly, the price for this luxury air travel service is expected to be comparable to the fare of the current Uber Black luxury car service. To solidify its position, Joby successfully secured an exclusive agreement with the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority. This contract officially makes Joby the sole provider of air taxi services in the city for six years, guaranteeing an absolute market share in the initial phase of operation.

The vision of the Uber and Joby alliance doesn't stop at the Middle East. Following its launch in Dubai, the service is expected to soon enter the US market. The next key milestone is the Los Angeles Olympic Games, where flying taxis are expected to become a revolutionary new symbol of urban transportation, offering travelers a trendy travel experience. However, the biggest hurdle Joby must overcome is the rigorous testing process of the US Federal Aviation Administration. Currently, the company confidently states that its entire fleet has successfully completed over 50,000 miles of test flights and is very close to achieving this legal goal, paving the way for expansion to New York, the United Kingdom, and Japan.

Source: https://vtv.vn/uber-chot-lich-ra-mat-taxi-bay-dien-100260302151640661.htm