In a strategic move to advance the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) sector, South Korea’s Airbility has announced a partnership with Schübeler, a German company renowned for its expertise in electric ducted fan (EDF) technology. The two companies have signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at collaboratively developing advanced EDF propulsion systems tailored for next-generation eVTOL aircraft.
Electric ducted fan systems have gained traction due to their efficiency in thrust generation, significant noise reduction, and ability to facilitate compact aircraft designs. This collaboration represents a “multi-dimensional” partnership that encompasses various facets, including joint research and development initiatives between Airbility’s base in Seoul and Schübeler’s operations in Berlin. The cooperation will also focus on customizing EDF technology specifically for Airbility’s platforms, integrating hybrid propulsion systems, and providing engineering support necessary for flight review certifications.
Both firms believe that this collaboration is a “natural next step” in cementing their positions within their respective national industrial landscapes while simultaneously expanding their supply chains through established international relationships.
Airbility, which is headquartered in Gyeonggi-do, specializes in eVTOL and various cruise platforms, such as the AB-U10 and AB-U60 unmanned aerial systems. These systems are particularly designed for counter-drone and disaster response operations. The company was founded by a team of experts hailing from Hyundai Motor Company and the South Korean Agency for Defense Development, leveraging proprietary system integration capabilities to support sectors including defense, public security, and commercial aviation.
On the other hand, Schübeler operates out of North Rhine-Westphalia, focusing on the design and manufacturing of propulsion systems that cater to a wide range of fields including defense, aerospace, automotive, and private industry. The company is particularly noted for its high-dynamic and high-torque EDF technology, as well as its specialized Aero line components optimized for eVTOL applications.
Jinmo Lee, CEO and co-founder of Airbility, expressed confidence in the alliance, stating, “Schübeler is a globally recognized specialist in EDF propulsion technology. By building on the product-level collaboration that the two companies have accumulated, we will pursue full-cycle cooperation and market expansion, laying the foundation for Korea’s high-speed eVTOL technology to enter the European market in earnest.”
The partnership not only marks a significant step towards technological advancement in the eVTOL field but also highlights the growing international collaboration between companies in the aerospace sector.
