Chennai-based ePlane, TCS Partner to Transform Urban Air Mobility

Chennai-based urban air mobility (UAM) startup ‘The ePlane Company’, which manufactures compact flying electric taxis, has entered into a strategic partnership with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). This collaboration aims to advance sustainable electric air mobility solutions for passenger and cargo transportation, marking a significant milestone in the development of electric aviation.

The partnership leverages The ePlane Company’s innovations in compact eVTOL (electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing) aircraft and TCS’s expertise in AI, data analytics, and the Internet of Things (IoT). Together, they aim to address pressing urban challenges such as congestion, inefficiency, and environmental sustainability.

Sustainable Air Mobility 

As part of the MoU, the startup will showcase its innovative aircraft designs and technologies, while TCS will contribute its strengths in digital transformation to optimise air mobility systems.

 "This collaboration with TCS aligns perfectly with our mission to redefine urban transportation by creating efficient and sustainable electric air mobility solutions,” said Vishnu Ramakrishnan, founder's office at The ePlane Company.

The partnership also emphasises sustainability through renewable energy integration and a supplier-buyer framework modelled after a “Keiretsu” system. Initiatives include tailored solutions for TCS customers, participation in innovation-focused events like TCS PacePorts, and proof-of-concept projects to accelerate the adoption of air mobility systems.

Harrick Vin, CTO of TCS, said that the partnership reflects their vision of leveraging technology for a sustainable future.  

Founded by Satya Chakravarthy and Pranjal Mehta in 2019, and incubated at IIT Madras, The ePlane Company aims to revolutionise urban transportation with its flagship eVTOL aircraft, the e200x, offering faster and more sustainable urban commutes.