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Toyota to Invest Heavily in Joby Aviation's eVTOL Production

  //automotive-transportation.news-articles.net/co .. heavily-in-joby-aviation-s-evtol-production.html
  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Friday, February 13th 2026 at 11:33 GMT by Bloomberg L.P.
      Locales: UNITED STATES, JAPAN, UNITED KINGDOM

February 13th, 2026 - San Francisco, CA - Toyota Motor Corp.'s collaboration with Joby Aviation is evolving from engineering support to a potential manufacturing and supply chain partnership, signaling a significant investment by the automotive giant into the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) sector. While initially framed as "troubleshooting" and refinement of Joby's aircraft, sources within both companies confirm Toyota is now actively assessing options for a far larger role, including potential large-scale production of key aircraft components and even entire airframes.

This increased commitment under CEO Koji Sato represents a strategic pivot for Toyota, acknowledging the growing viability of urban air mobility as a disruptive force in transportation. The initial collaboration, dating back several years, saw Toyota engineers assisting with flight control systems and powertrain optimization. However, the scope has dramatically expanded in recent months. Toyota's engineering teams are no longer simply advising; they are deeply embedded within Joby's development process, working alongside Joby's experts to address critical engineering challenges as the company nears commercial launch.

Joby Aviation, a California-based pioneer in the eVTOL space, remains on track to begin commercial air taxi services in 2025, initially targeting limited operations in select metropolitan areas. The company's ambitious plans hinge on scaling production efficiently and reliably - a challenge where Toyota's manufacturing expertise is invaluable. The eVTOL market, while still nascent, is projected to be worth tens of billions of dollars by the end of the decade, attracting investment from both traditional aerospace companies and tech startups.

"The early stages were about due diligence - understanding Joby's technology and its feasibility," explained a source familiar with the partnership. "Now, it's about how we can bring Toyota's manufacturing prowess to bear, ensuring Joby can meet its production targets without compromising on safety or quality."

The potential partnership extends beyond simply assembling aircraft. Toyota is reportedly evaluating the possibility of manufacturing electric motors, battery packs, and even the carbon fiber composite structures that form the core of Joby's aircraft. This vertical integration would provide Joby with a secure and cost-effective supply chain, critical for maintaining competitive pricing in the emerging air taxi market. The focus on battery technology is particularly significant, given Toyota's long history of innovation in hybrid and electric vehicle technology.

Industry analysts suggest this move aligns with a broader trend of established automakers diversifying into new mobility solutions. While many are focusing on autonomous ground vehicles, Toyota appears to be hedging its bets by investing in both terrestrial and aerial transportation. "Toyota recognizes that the future of mobility isn't just about cars," stated Dr. Emily Carter, a transportation analyst at Global Future Insights. "They're looking at all potential modes of transport, and eVTOLs offer a unique opportunity to address urban congestion and create new revenue streams."

However, challenges remain. Regulatory hurdles, particularly concerning air traffic management and pilot certification, are significant. Public acceptance of eVTOLs will also be crucial, requiring assurances of safety, noise reduction, and environmental sustainability. Joby is actively working with regulators and community stakeholders to address these concerns.

Toyota's broader strategy includes continued investment in autonomous driving and robotics, demonstrating a commitment to transforming the entire mobility landscape. The company believes these technologies are interconnected, with autonomous systems potentially playing a role in managing air traffic and optimizing flight routes. The potential synergy between these various initiatives could position Toyota as a leader in the future of transportation, spanning both ground and air.