Electric cargo aircraft has tremendous potential and could dramatically change various logistics applications. Moya Aero, headquartered in Sao Jose dos Campos, Brazil, is ready to play this pioneering part in the southern hemisphere.
The Brazilian company is using more than a decade’s experience with electric aircraft to develop its planned electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) uncrewed logistics aircraft.
It has now announced a strategic partnership with Helisul Aviation to develop logistical operations with high-capacity RPAS (remotely piloted aircraft). They signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to purchase 50 units of the Moya eVTOL, expected to operate as high-capacity RPAS for various logistics applications.
The Moya eVTOL is an autonomous cargo drone, all-electric, with a range of 110 km (68 miles) and a maximum payload of 200 kg (441 lbs). Being electric allows the cargo drone to operate with zero emissions, while its design brings efficiency gains. Helisul Drones, the group’s remotely piloted aircraft division, will perform these 50 eVTOLs.
Helisul is an aviation company that has been operating in Brazil for half a century and today has one of the largest helicopter fleets in Latin America, with over 50 aircraft. Helisul Drones operates in highly specialized operations segments, which require sophisticated equipment and highly qualified personnel.
“We believe the Moya eVTOL will revolutionize freight transportation with greater agility and productivity. Moya’s high load capacity and flight range are perfect for this type of mission. Not to mention that it is a clean flight, with zero carbon emissions,” said Humberto Biesuz, Helisul’s Executive Superintendent.
Moya’s prototype will fly by the end of 2023. The first Moya eVTOL is expected to enter into service by the end of 2025.
“The Moya eVTOL perfectly complements our drone fleet strategy, operating at a unique payload and range level. In addition, we are development partners, collaborating from the operator’s point of view,” said Lucas Fontoura, Head of the UAS Division at Helisul Drones.
