Sumitomo Corp. announced April 3 it will work with Fort Worth-based Bell in an alliance to conduct market research, improve upon existing technologies and build new businesses to provide high-quality services at affordable prices within the air mobility space.
The air mobility industry is expected to improve the current transportation infrastructure and logistics of commercial air space. Once implemented, air mobility will reduce transportation time within urban cities and improve access to remote areas. This change is also expected to improve emergency transportation and change the way goods are shipped.
“Bell continuously seeks new ways to advance our aircraft and provide fast, comfortable travel solutions to consumers while giving them access to remote and challenging destinations,” said Chad Sparks, director of Bell’s Technology and Innovation Strategic Campaigns. “We are excited to partner with Sumitomo Corporation to explore new forms of technology and change the way our passengers and goods are transported.”
Sumitomo Corporation and Bell will soon begin discussions for launching Bell’s Unmanned Drones and Air Taxi aircraft services by the mid-2020s. In order to develop this business, Sumitomo and Bell aim to integrate various technologies from several companies without limitation in industries. The goal of this business is to provide new value to society by creating new logistics and transportation service with Electric Vertical Take Off and Landing aircraft (eVTOL).
Bell is working with a variety of companies, including Uber and Hillwood, to develop air mobility solutions and air taxis.