| 2025 Agenda
Registration Open
Chair’s Opening Remarks
Europe’s Role In Shaping The Global eVTOL Market: Manufacturing And Development Trends
This presentation will explore Europe’s significant influence on the global eVTOL market, particularly in manufacturing and development trends. It will address how Europe is setting standards in innovation, regulation, and sustainability, but also highlight the challenges the industry faces, such as regulatory hurdles, production scalability, and infrastructure readiness. The session aims to provide insights into how European manufacturers and developers are shaping the future of eVTOL, and what the market needs to overcome to thrive.
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Understand Europe’s position in driving global eVTOL innovation and sustainability standards
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Identify major regulatory and infrastructure challenges that could impact eVTOL growth
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Explore current trends in eVTOL manufacturing and the push toward scalability and efficiency
Navigating The Commercial Landscape For eVTOL: Strategic Roadmap And Market Insights
Speaker TBC, Volocopter GmbH
As eVTOL OEMs chart their course into the emerging urban and inter-city air mobility market, commercial strategy and market readiness are paramount. This presentation, led by a prominent OEM, will delve into the critical commercial challenges of entering the eVTOL market. Drawing from a series of comprehensive market studies, the session will cover essential components of a go-to-market strategy, including regulatory and market demand analysis, business model formulation, and operational execution. Case studies from leading eVTOL companies and industries such as automotive and aerospace will provide practical insights into overcoming obstacles in certification, consumer adoption, and infrastructure planning. The session will highlight achievable milestones, anticipated growth metrics, and strategic adjustments needed for a successful market entry by 2030.
Key challenges and themes include:
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Certification and Regulatory Timelines: Strategies for aligning product timelines with regulatory requirements and understanding the impact on market entry
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Infrastructure and Market Demand: Assessing and developing the infrastructure needed to support scalable eVTOL operations and consumer uptake
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Competitive Positioning and Business Model: Insights into building a differentiated business model by examining niche opportunities and operational efficiencies
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Gain a clear understanding of the key regulatory and market entry challenges for eVTOLs and the strategic steps required to mitigate them
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Learn how to assess market demand, infrastructure requirements, and consumer adoption rates to build a scalable and commercially viable eVTOL business
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Explore business model formulation and competitive positioning strategies to differentiate within the urban air mobility space, informed by case studies of existing and emerging eVTOL companies
Building Public Trust: Crafting A Comprehensive Communications Strategy For eVTOL Adoption
Catherine Roy, Foresight and Design Leader, Design Center Quebec, Thales
The success of eVTOLs is not only dependent on technological advancements but also on public acceptance. This presentation will explore the importance of social acceptability in the eVTOL market, emphasizing the need for a robust communications strategy throughout all phases of development, from design to operation. We will outline how transparent, effective communication can bridge public concerns, manage expectations, and build trust across stakeholders, ensuring the long-term value of eVTOL technology.
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Understand the role of social acceptability in the success of eVTOLs and its impact on market growth
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Identify the critical phases in eVTOL development where communication plays a pivotal role
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Learn strategies for fostering public trust through transparent, proactive communication
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Explore best practices for managing communications during contingencies or operational challenges
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Gain insights on creating a sustainable future value proposition for eVTOLs by aligning technical progress with community engagement and acceptance
AAM: A Philosophical Guide For Early Operations
Dave Stepanek, Executive Vice President and Chief Transformation Officer, Bristow Group
This presentation will explore the “five theses” essential for the successful introduction and scaling of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), emphasizing the key challenges in technology, regulation, funding, and ecosystem readiness. Reflecting on industry insights, it will outline practical considerations for safe, scalable AAM from an air carrier’s perspective. The discussion will provide observations and interim conclusions about AAM’s role in the future of transportation.
Five theses:
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Early-stage AAM operations should focus on a business-to-business model supporting a logistics network in an industrial area within a 20km-60km range
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AAM commercial operations will be required to be conducted by licensed air carriers and, particularly in the early stage, those experienced in vertical lift safety management will be most efficient at doing so
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Early-stage AAM operations are best conducted by companies experienced in purchasing and configuring aircraft for their intended uses, and AAM manufacturers would be advised to work with experienced commercial operators during product development processes to ensure a successful early adoption of AAM by the publicand in the marketplace
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Early AAM operations should be conducted by air carriers with existing infrastructure that have the capability and desire to collaborate and share certain data to enable AAM to scale globally
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Air carriers involved in AAM flight operations should have appropriate equipment, programs, and personnel in place to manage health and flight data in a manner consistent with aviation industry best practices
Clearing The Path To Market: Strategies From Leading OEMs On Overcoming eVTOL Industry Challenges
Moderator: Tania Roca, Executive Director – Global Aviation & Space, WTW
TBC, Joby Aviation
TBC, Volocopter GmbH
TBC, Vertical Aerospace
TBC, Embraer/Eve Air Mobility
TBC, Leonardo
As the eVTOL industry accelerates toward commercial viability, major OEMs face a suite of critical challenges that shape their development timelines and strategic decisions. The panel assembles leaders from prominent OEMs to share insights on navigating some of the sector’s toughest obstacles. From the race for certification and talent recruitment to the impact of global financial instability, these executives will discuss both their strategies and the overarching trends influencing eVTOL’s path to market readiness.
Key challenges and themes include:
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Certification Race: With eVTOL innovation outpacing regulatory frameworks, OEMs must balance swift development with compliance demands, aiming to secure approvals across diverse markets.
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Talent Recruitment and Retention: Building teams with specialized eVTOL expertise remains a crucial challenge as OEMs compete to attract and retain top talent amid a limited talent pool.
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Global Economic Volatility: Economic fluctuations impact capital availability, pricing, and supply chains, posing significant hurdles for companies focused on scaling and production ramp-ups.
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Identify the key regulatory hurdles OEMs face in the certification race and explore strategies for mitigating delays
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Discuss effective recruitment practices and retention strategies to address workforce shortages and maintain a competitive talent edge
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Understand the financial challenges posed by global economic instability and explore solutions for managing economic risks in eVTOL development
Advancing eVTOL Innovation With Hardware-In-The-Loop: Testing BMS, Motor Drives, And Flight Controllers
This presentation will explore the role of Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing in advancing eVTOL innovation, focusing on the validation of battery management systems (BMS), motor drives, and flight controllers. It will highlight how HIL simulations provide a robust environment for testing and optimizing critical components, ensuring their reliability and performance in real-world scenarios. The session will also discuss the challenges of integrating HIL testing into the development lifecycle and the importance of iterative testing in enhancing eVTOL safety and efficiency.
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Understand the principles and benefits of Hardware-in-the-Loop testing for eVTOL systems
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Explore how HIL simulations enhance the validation of BMS, motor drives, and flight controllers
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Learn about the challenges of integrating HIL testing into the eVTOL development process and its role in ensuring safety and reliability
Morning Networking Break
Europe’s Growing eVTOL Ecosystem: A Focus On Germany
Moderator:
Panelists: Emilia Torres Gamboa, Head of Product Marketing, NEX Aero GmbH
Speaker TBC, Job title TBC, Volocopter GmbH
This roundtable panel will delve into the rapid growth of Europe’s eVTOL ecosystem, with a special focus on Germany’s role as a key player. The discussion will cover Germany’s advancements in infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and industry collaboration, as well as the country’s potential to become a leader in urban air mobility. Panelists will also address challenges such as public acceptance, regulatory alignment, and the development of supportive ecosystems to foster sustainable eVTOL operations.
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Understand Germany’s role in driving the growth of Europe’s eVTOL ecosystem
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Explore the regulatory and infrastructure challenges in supporting eVTOL development
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Learn about the collaborative efforts between government, industry, and public stakeholders in advancing eVTOL in Germany
Is A Hybrid Aircraft Running On SAF A Better Way For VTOL?
Michal Illich, Founder and CEO, Zuri
In the pursuit of sustainable, long-range eVTOL solutions, hybrid aircraft powered by Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) present a unique path forward. With pure electric models facing limitations in energy density and range, a hybrid configuration offers a compelling alternative for extended flights, achieving 500-700 km on a single charge. Zuri’s founder will unpack the complexities of designing and developing VTOLs with hybrid powertrains, focusing on the specific engineering challenges, regulatory hurdles, and operational pain points in creating a greener aviation solution.
This session will explore:
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Energy and Weight Constraints: Balancing battery weight with fuel efficiency and emissions, a key challenge for achieving optimal performance and sustainability.
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Infrastructure and Supply Chain Limitations: Addressing the practical and logistical barriers in accessing and distributing SAF, particularly in emerging markets.
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Regulatory Compliance and Market Adoption: Navigating global regulations for SAF and hybrid technology integration, and the critical role of consumer trust in adopting hybrid VTOLs for urban air mobility.
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Understand the technical and logistical challenges of integrating SAF and hybrid powertrains into VTOL aircraft designs
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Discover best practices for managing the infrastructure demands and supply chain issues related to SAF
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Gain insights into the regulatory and market forces shaping the adoption of hybrid aircraft in sustainable aviation
Emerging Technologies: Incremental Advances In Battery And Hydrogen Solutions
Speaker TBC, Job title TBC, NEX Aero GmbH
This presentation will explore emerging technologies that focus on incremental advancements in battery and hydrogen solutions for eVTOL applications. It will examine how innovations in battery chemistry, energy density, and hydrogen fuel systems are driving the evolution of eVTOL capabilities. The session will also address the challenges associated with integrating these technologies into existing infrastructure and their implications for operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.
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Understand the latest developments in battery and hydrogen technologies for eVTOL applications
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Explore the incremental advancements that are enhancing energy efficiency and operational range
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Learn about the challenges of integrating emerging technologies into current eVTOL systems and infrastructure
From Carbon Fiber To Thermoplastics: The Evolution Of Composites In Air Mobility
This presentation will examine the evolution of composite materials in air mobility, focusing on the transition from carbon fiber to thermoplastics. It will highlight the advantages of thermoplastic composites, including weight reduction, enhanced durability, and cost-effectiveness, which are crucial for the performance of eVTOL vehicles. The session will also discuss the challenges in manufacturing and integrating these advanced materials into existing aerospace designs.
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Understand the key differences and benefits of carbon fiber versus thermoplastic composites in eVTOL applications
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Explore the impact of advanced composite materials on vehicle performance and operational efficiency
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Learn about the manufacturing challenges and solutions for integrating new composite materials into air mobility designs
The Future Of 4D Highways: Air Traffic Management For Electric Air Taxis
This presentation will explore the concept of 4D highways and their significance for air traffic management in the emerging sector of electric air taxis. It will discuss how advanced air traffic management systems are being developed to accommodate the unique flight patterns and operational needs of eVTOLs, ensuring safe and efficient airspace usage. The session will also address the challenges of integrating these systems with existing air traffic control frameworks and the importance of real-time data and communication for operational success.
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Understand the concept of 4D highways and their application to air traffic management for eVTOLs
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Explore the challenges of integrating advanced air traffic management systems with traditional airspace frameworks
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Learn about the role of real-time data and communication in ensuring safe and efficient operations for electric air taxis
eVTOL Integration at Major German Airports: Future-Proofing Infrastructure and Operations
Moderator:
Panelists: César Nava Gaxiola, Ingeniero de innovación, Aena
This roundtable panel will discuss the integration of eVTOL operations at major German airports and the strategies needed to future-proof their infrastructure. Experts will explore how airports can adapt to the unique demands of eVTOL vehicles, including the necessary changes in operational protocols, charging infrastructure, and airspace management. The session will also address the challenges of coordinating with existing aviation operations while ensuring safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
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Understand the key considerations for integrating eVTOL operations into existing airport infrastructure
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Explore the challenges of adapting operational protocols and airspace management for eVTOLs
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Learn about strategies for developing charging infrastructure and ensuring safety in a multi-modal aviation environment
Networking Lunch Break
Building The Infrastructure For eVTOL: What’s Needed For Widespread Adoption?
Darrell Swanson, Co-Founder / Strategic Advisor on Advanced Air Mobility – Electric Aviation, EA Maven
This presentation will focus on the essential infrastructure required for the widespread adoption of eVTOL technology. It will cover the various components needed, including vertiports, charging stations, air traffic management systems, and maintenance facilities. The session will also address the challenges of funding, regulatory compliance, and urban planning, as well as strategies for fostering collaboration among stakeholders to create a seamless eVTOL ecosystem.
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Understand the critical infrastructure components necessary for eVTOL deployment
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Explore the challenges of funding and regulatory compliance in building eVTOL infrastructure
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Learn about the importance of stakeholder collaboration in creating a cohesive eVTOL ecosystem
Environmental Impact: The Role Of eVTOLs In Reducing Carbon Emissions And Air Quality Improvement
This presentation will examine the environmental impact of eVTOL technology, focusing on its potential to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality. It will discuss how eVTOLs, with their electric propulsion systems, can contribute to sustainable urban mobility and mitigate the effects of traditional aviation on the environment. The session will also address the challenges of lifecycle emissions, energy sourcing, and the importance of integrating eVTOLs into a broader sustainable transportation strategy.
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Understand the environmental benefits of eVTOLs in reducing carbon emissions compared to traditional aviation
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Explore the potential of eVTOLs to improve urban air quality and contribute to sustainable mobility
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Learn about the challenges of lifecycle emissions and the importance of sustainable energy sourcing for eVTOL operations
Visionary OEM Leaders In eVTOL: Insights From Industry Innovators
Moderator:
Panelists: Stefan Andres, Chief of Product, Piasecki Aircraft Corporation
This roundtable panel will feature visionary leaders from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in the eVTOL industry, sharing their insights on the future of urban air mobility. Panelists will discuss innovative technologies, market trends, and the evolving landscape of eVTOL design and manufacturing. The session will also address the challenges faced by OEMs in scaling production, achieving regulatory compliance, and fostering collaboration within the industry.
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Gain insights from industry leaders on the latest trends and innovations in eVTOL design and manufacturing
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Understand the challenges OEMs face in scaling production and navigating regulatory landscapes
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Explore strategies for fostering collaboration among stakeholders in the eVTOL ecosystem to drive innovation and growth
Smart Cities And Aerial Transport: Building The Vertiports And Traffic Networks Of Tomorrow
This presentation will focus on the integration of aerial transport into smart city frameworks, emphasizing the development of vertiports and traffic networks designed for eVTOL operations. It will explore the role of urban planning in facilitating seamless connections between ground and air transport while addressing the challenges of infrastructure design, community acceptance, and regulatory compliance. The session will also highlight best practices and innovative approaches for creating a sustainable and efficient aerial transport ecosystem.
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Understand the role of smart city concepts in integrating aerial transport and eVTOL operations
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Explore the challenges and best practices in designing vertiports and aerial traffic networks
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Learn about the importance of community engagement and regulatory compliance in the development of urban air mobility infrastructure
Propulsion Configurations In eVTOL Aircraft: An Overview Of Emerging Technologies
This presentation will provide an overview of the various propulsion configurations in eVTOL aircraft, highlighting emerging technologies that are shaping the future of aerial mobility. It will discuss the advantages and challenges of different propulsion systems, including electric, hybrid, and hydrogen-powered options. The session will also cover the implications of these technologies for performance, efficiency, and regulatory compliance in the rapidly evolving eVTOL landscape.
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Understand the different propulsion configurations available for eVTOL aircraft and their respective benefits
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Explore the challenges associated with implementing emerging propulsion technologies
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Learn about the impact of propulsion advancements on performance, efficiency, and regulatory requirements in eVTOL operations
Afternoon Networking Break
Cybersecurity Meets eVTOL: Risks For EVTOLs And New Certification Requirements
Jens Köhler, Chief Expert Cybersecurity, ITK Engineering
This presentation will showcase unique attack vectors of EVTOL aircrafts and highlight the new certification requirements based on DO 326/356 and ED 202/203 that have to be satisfied in order to harden EVTOL aircrafts against attacks. We will highlight common challenges when implementing the required methods (e.g., in the SRA) and showcase how existing solutions from other domains can be applied without having to reinvent the wheel.
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Explore potential cybersecurity risks for EVTOL aircrafts
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Understand the new cybersecurity certification requirements (DO 326 / ED 202)
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Learn how you can leverage cybersecurity solution and expertise from other domains
Investment Horizons In eVTOL: Challenges And Insights From Leading Investors
Moderator: Adam Forsyth, Head of Longspur Capital Markets and Head of Research, Longspur Capital Limited
Panelists: TBC
The eVTOL industry represents a compelling opportunity for investors, but it also carries unique risks and uncertainties. In this round table, moderated by an expert from Longspur Capital Limited, representatives from major investment organizations — both those with active stakes in the eVTOL sector and those considering entry — will discuss the complex landscape of eVTOL investment. With extended certification timelines, evolving economic conditions, and recent insolvencies in the sector, investors face multiple strategic challenges as they navigate this emerging market.
Key discussion points will include:
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Extended Timeframes for Certification and Revenue: The unpredictable regulatory journey impacts return-on-investment timelines, forcing investors to rethink their risk and patience thresholds.
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Economic Market Fluctuations: Global financial instability, rising interest rates, and inflation have introduced additional volatility into the market, affecting capital access and valuations.
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Sector Insolvencies and Market Viability: High-profile bankruptcies have raised questions about the resilience of eVTOL startups and the robustness of their business models, requiring investors to reassess due diligence processes and investment criteria.
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Gain insight into the regulatory and revenue timelines for eVTOLs and how they influence investment strategies.
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Understand the financial market risks facing eVTOL investors and approaches to mitigating exposure.
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Learn from recent market insolvencies and explore frameworks for assessing the stability and viability of eVTOL companies.
Accelerating eVTOL Takeoff: The Role Of Advanced Battery Technologies In Air Mobility
This presentation will focus on the pivotal role of advanced battery technologies in accelerating the takeoff of eVTOL air mobility. It will highlight innovations in battery chemistry, energy density, and charging efficiency that are essential for meeting the operational demands of eVTOL vehicles. The session will also address the challenges related to scalability, safety, and lifecycle management of these technologies as the industry seeks to achieve widespread adoption.
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Understand the importance of advanced battery technologies in enabling eVTOL operations
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Explore the latest innovations in battery chemistry and their impact on energy density and charging efficiency
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Learn about the challenges associated with scaling battery technologies for commercial eVTOL applications
Lessons From Legacy Industries: Navigating eVTOL Development With Insights From Automotive, Computing, And Electronics
Lucas Marchesini, Co-Founder, CEO & CTO, Manta Aircraft SA
As eVTOL companies race to bring revolutionary aircraft to market, they can learn valuable lessons from the successes and pitfalls experienced by legacy industries such as automotive, computing, electronics, and machinery. This presentation, led by a prominent OEM in the eVTOL space, will explore the parallels between these industries and the eVTOL sector, highlighting how these insights can be applied to mitigate challenges like scalability, safety, and regulatory compliance. Through case studies, the presentation will showcase specific historical examples of rapid innovation, efficient scaling, and strategic pivots, and discuss how these can help guide the eVTOL industry through its unique growth phase. Potential solutions and best practices will be addressed, with the aim of accelerating progress while reducing risk.
Key challenges and themes include:
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Scalability and Manufacturing Efficiency: Lessons in scaling production and quality control from the automotive and electronics sectors.
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Safety and Regulatory Compliance: Insights from aviation and automotive industries in navigating regulatory requirements and ensuring robust safety standards.
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Consumer Trust and Market Adoption: Case studies from computing and machinery industries in building trust through transparency, reliability, and addressing public skepticism.
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Understand critical lessons in scaling manufacturing and ensuring quality from legacy industries and how these can benefit eVTOL development
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Learn from regulatory and safety practices in automotive and aviation to improve compliance and risk management in eVTOL projects
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Gain insights into strategies for building consumer trust and achieving market adoption, drawing from the experience of established industries
Sound Strategies: Noise Reduction For Electric Vertical Takeoff And Landing Aircraft
Jakob Saalfrank, Founder & CEO, Grasshopper Air Mobility
This presentation will focus on innovative noise reduction strategies for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, emphasizing the importance of acoustic management in urban environments. It will explore various technologies and design approaches aimed at minimizing noise during takeoff, landing, and flight operations. The session will also discuss the regulatory implications of noise standards and the potential impact of noise reduction innovations on public acceptance and operational feasibility.
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Understand the significance of noise reduction in eVTOL design and urban integration
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Explore innovative technologies and strategies for minimizing noise emissions in eVTOL operations
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Learn about the regulatory implications and public perception challenges related to noise in urban air mobility.
Advanced Charging And Battery Management Systems
Speaker TBC, Job title TBC, Bosch General Aviation Technology GmbH
This presentation will explore the cutting-edge advancements in charging and battery management systems (BMS) that are revolutionizing eVTOL mobility. It will highlight how innovations in rapid charging, energy density, and battery lifespan are addressing key challenges like range anxiety and operational efficiency. The session will also cover the importance of robust BMS for ensuring safety, optimizing performance, and minimizing downtime in eVTOL operations.
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Understand the latest advancements in eVTOL charging technology and battery management systems
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Explore how innovative battery solutions can extend flight range and reduce charging time
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Learn about the safety and performance benefits of advanced battery management systems for eVTOLs