Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corporation announced that it has launched the initial phase of a strategic manufacturing alliance with US aviation company Joby Aviation Inc for the production of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) flying taxis.

California-based Joby Aviation, listed on the New York Stock Exchange, was established in 2009 to develop flying vehicles based on eVTOL technologies.

The joint venture, called Joby Toyota Aero Manufacturing Preparation Company and based in California, is 51%-owned by Toyota and 49% by Joby. It will combine Joby Aviation's “pioneering work in electric aviation with Toyota's globally recognised expertise in production systems and operational excellence.”

Toyota confirmed that the new alliance will initially focus on establishing the groundwork for commercial production, including developing advanced manufacturing systems with particular emphasis on maximising productivity, quality, and minimising costs. In a second stage, the joint venture will focus on expanding production capacity to support aircraft certification and meet anticipated growth in demand for eVTOL aircraft.

Joby Aviation’s CEO, JoeBen Bevirt, said in a statement: "Toyota has been by Joby's side for nearly a decade, providing invaluable guidance and support as we built the foundation for manufacturing our aircraft. Today's announcement reflects the strength of our relationship and our shared confidence in the opportunity ahead. Together, we share a vision of making aerial mobility an everyday reality, and we look forward to delivering on that promise together."

Toyota’s chairman, Akio Toyoda, commented: "Since our founding, we've been guided by the philosophy of providing mobility for all. Over time, we've continued to expand what mobility can mean. We see air mobility as a natural extension of that philosophy―from the ground into the sky―and as a way to bring new value to people's lives and to society. It is really meaningful for us to take on this challenge together with Joby, a partner that shares the same vision. We believe this strengthened relationship is an important step forward in realising the future mobility society."