The ePlane Company, which focuses on developing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for urban commuting, has successfully raised $14 million in funding. The investment was co-led by Speciale Invest and Antares Ventures, with participation from existing investors and prominent names like Micelio Mobility, Naval Ravikant, Java Capital, Samarthya Investment Advisors, Redstart (from Naukri), and Anicut.
The funds will primarily be used to obtain global regulatory certifications and accelerate the commercialization of its electric aircraft. The capital will support the development and certification of ePlane’s manned aircraft, with flight testing scheduled for mid-2025. Additionally, the company plans to expand its technical capabilities, including the commercialization of drone technology through a wholly-owned subsidiary.
Professor Satya Chakravarthy, Founder and CEO, emphasized that the company’s focus on safety, sustainability, and innovation will remain central to its strategy. “This investment will enable us to bring aerial mobility closer to reality,” he said. “With our technological advancements and committed team, we are paving the way for the future of urban transport.”
Vishesh Rajaram, Managing Partner at Speciale Invest, highlighted ePlane’s leadership and innovation in the eVTOL space, noting their commitment to solving urban mobility challenges with sustainable, tech-driven solutions.
The company has already validated several key subsystems and expanded its intellectual property portfolio in the eVTOL space. The funding will enhance ePlane’s prototyping and testing facilities to meet global eVTOL standards. After receiving design organization approval (DOA) from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation last year, a critical step in the aircraft certification process, ePlane aims to develop its certifiable prototype by March next year. The startup envisions commercializing compact electric planes that can navigate dense urban environments, offering flying taxis operated by a human pilot to carry two to four passengers up to 200 km on a single charges.
