Photo/Illutration A concept image of SkyDrive Inc.'s small electric aircraft flying over an Indian city (Provided by SkyDrive Inc.)

A Japanese venture announced Jan. 28 that a private jet operator in India has pre-ordered 50 of its "flying cars," crediting shareholder Suzuki Motor Corp. for offering support toward realizing the agreement.

SkyDrive Inc., based in Toyota, Aichi Prefecture, and JetSetGo Aviation Services Ltd. are considering operating a flying car business in the state of Gujarat, India, where Suzuki has a factory. They intend to expand the business across India.

The Gujarat state government and SkyDrive have already reached an agreement to jointly resolve issues such as traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions.

SkyDrive is currently still developing its small electric aircraft, commonly known as eVTOL. It aims to gain type approval, a performance standard certificate needed before mass-producing vehicles or parts, in 2026.

The aircraft shares its name with the startup, measures about 11.5 meters long and can seat up to three, including the pilot. Its maximum speed is 100 kph and cruising distances are expected to be 15 to 40 kilometers

The company plans to debut the eVTOL and hold demonstration flights alongside its counterparts at the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo scheduled to open on April 13. 

The initial plan to offer attendees a chance to ride SkyDrive and other companies' aircrafts was shot down by expo organizers and replaced with the demonstration flights after failing to meet safety regulations.

India is not the only country interested. Including JetSetGo Aviation Service's order, 323 units have so far been requested from companies, including those in Japan, South Korea, the United States and Vietnam. 

Suzuki's backing of SkyDrive when the venture introduced its aircraft technology to India is the latest of its boons as a sponsor. SkyDrive has manufactured its flying car prototypes at Suzuki's Iwata factory in Shizuoka Prefecture since March of last year.