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In this issue, we introduce YOKOWO’s connector technology that supports the practical operation of eVTOL aircraft and showcasing a real-world example.
 
For flying cars to be accepted by society, more is required than simply the ability to fly. They must operate safely, reliably, and repeatedly. To achieve this, every component within the aircraft must continue to function correctly under harsh conditions—including constant vibration, mechanical shock, and temperature variation.
YOKOWO provides connectivity technologies designed specifically for these demanding environments, supporting the practical operation of eVTOL aircraft.

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● Connectivity Requirements for eVTOL Aircraft

eVTOL aircraft adopt fully electric, fly‑by‑wire architectures. Batteries, power distribution units (PDUs), motors, sensors, and control modules are densely integrated inside the airframe.

The electrical contacts connecting these systems must maintain stable power and signal transmission under conditions such as:

- Continuous vibration generated by propellers and motors
- Mechanical shock during takeoff and landing
- Structural flex caused by lightweight airframe design

YOKOWO’s spring‑based connector technology maintains constant contact force through its spring structure. This enables stable electrical contact even in the presence of micro‑movement or vibration, ensuring reliable connectivity in demanding eVTOL environments.
 

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● eVTOL Implementation Example: Joby Aviation

One example of this connector technology in use can be found in an eVTOL aircraft developed by Joby Aviation. In this aircraft, YOKOWO connectors are used in integrated power and communication interfaces that connect flight‑control and control‑system modules to the airframe.

At Expo 2025 Osaka, Joby’s eVTOL was showcased through full‑scale aircraft display and demonstration flights, highlighting the transition of flying cars from experimental platforms toward real-world deployment. The selection of connector technology capable of maintaining stable contact under continuous vibration underscores a key design requirement for operational eVTOL aircraft.
 

● Expanding the Role of Connectivity: Charging and Data Infrastructure

In eVTOL operations, connectivity extends beyond the aircraft itself. Connections to ground infrastructure directly affect operational efficiency and safety.
A representative example is GEACS (Global Electric Aviation Charging System), an open charging interface introduced by Joby Aviation.

GEACS integrates:

- Multi‑channel DC charging for redundant battery packs
- Battery conditioning using liquid cooling
- Secure Ethernet‑based flight‑data offload during charging

A particularly notable aspect of this system is the integration of high power, thermal management, and data communication within a single interface. Such designs require connector structures that minimize insertion force while ensuring reliable electrical contact, as well as stable signal transmission to maintain communication quality.
In this way, connectivity technology supporting eVTOL operations is expanding from internal aircraft systems to the surrounding infrastructure.
 

※The content and photographs included in this article are published with prior permission from Joby Aviation, Inc.

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The commercialization of flying cars is enabled not only by visible aircraft technologies, but also by component technologies that maintain reliable connections behind the scenes.
YOKOWO will continue to support the safety and reliability of next‑generation mobility through advanced connectivity solutions.

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