Flying vehicle showcased at the Osaka Expo by SkyDrive
In a groundbreaking event, Japanese startup SkyDrive Inc. showcased its flying car, the SkyDrive Model SD-05, at the ongoing World Exposition in Osaka, Japan. The demonstration flights, which began in April 2025 and are scheduled to continue until Aug. 24, have been attracting a lot of attention.
During Thursday's demonstration, the flying car completed an approximately three-minute unmanned flight. The aircraft ascended about 4 meters and moved forward some 50 meters, confirming its safety and flight capabilities to the public.
The SD-05 is an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft with key specifications including a length of 11.5 meters, a width of 11.3 meters, and a height of 3 meters (including rotors). It can seat three people (one pilot and two passengers) and is powered by battery electric propulsion. The aircraft is made of composite materials and aluminum alloy, and it uses 12 motors and rotors for propulsion.
SkyDrive CEO Tomohiro Fukuzawa expressed his satisfaction with the successful demonstration, stating that it was a significant milestone for the company's development towards commercial use.
The demonstration flights are taking place at the World Exposition in Osaka. Visitors have had the opportunity to witness the flying car during the demonstrations. The flights are held daily and are a highlight of the Expo 2025.
It is important to note that the SD-05 is currently in the development and certification phase. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) accepted SkyDrive’s application for type certification in October 2021 to ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards. The demonstrations at Expo 2025 represent significant milestones for SkyDrive’s development towards commercial use.
Sources:
- SkyDrive official specifications page
- Business Wire, SkyDrive Expo 2025 demo flight report, July 31, 2025
- Jiji Press, SkyDrive demo flights at Expo 2025, July 16, 2025
- SkyDrive social media announcements on demo flight schedule
- Visitors at the World Exposition in Osaka have the chance to watch gadgets of the future, such as the SkyDrive Model SD-05, a flying car showcased by Japanese startup SkyDrive Inc.
- The success of the demonstration flights for the SD-05, powered by battery electric propulsion and equipped with 12 motors and rotors, has attracted attention from the finance industry, as investment opportunities in emerging transportation technology continue to expand.
- The automotive industry is also watching developments closely, as the SD-05 represents a potential disruptor in the sector, thanks to its innovative use of technology and its potential for revolutionizing personal transportation.
