UrbanLink Air Mobility, a South Florida-based provider of advanced air mobility (AAM) and sustainable transportation, is undertaking a strategic partnership with California-based Traverse Aero to expand its fleet with the addition of 40 hybrid-electric eVTOL cargo drones, known as Orcas.
Orca is the world’s first fully autonomous eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) drone designed specifically for palletised cargo. It boasts a 600-mile range and delivers cargo weighing up to 550lb. It uses batteries and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to achieve an 80% reduction in CO2 emissions, according to its manufacturer.
“The Orca drones not only provide our customers with an environmentally-friendly delivery service, they also allow us to support first responders and local communities in the wake of a natural disaster,” said Ed Wegel, UrbanLink founder and chairman.
“This partnership marks another step forward in our mission to deliver sustainable, high-value, end-to-end transportation across air, sea and ground.”
UrbanLink will initially deploy Orca drones in Puerto Rico, working with government and relief agencies to deliver essential supplies, equipment, and rescue services.
In Miami, Orca drones will support relief operations and transport additional baggage and cargo for passengers traveling via UrbanLink’s eVTOL aircraft and sea vessels.
“We are honoured to receive this order and partner with UrbanLink – a true pioneer in sustainable aviation and advanced air mobility,” said Scott Parker, founder and CEO of Traverse Aero.
“It validates the Orca as the platform of choice for AAM cargo and humanitarian relief. It also ensures we remain closely aligned with the rapidly evolving eVTOL and AAM industry and laser-focused on our customer requirements.”
This addition to UrbanLink’s fleet further reinforces the company’s mission to build a fully integrated sustainable transportation network.
