Embraer’s innovation unit, Embraer-X, is focusing on decarbonizing aviation through projects such as electric vertical take-off and landing vehicles (eVTOLs). Established in 2017, the US-based unit aims to nurture disruptive ideas that may have been overlooked in the past due to high uncertainty and risk. The goal is to lead disruption in the aviation industry rather than be a victim of it.
Embraer-X has contributed approximately 40% of Embraer’s revenue in the past five years through innovative projects, with a target of reaching 50% in the future. The challenge lies in maintaining a continuous stream of new product launches to sustain this revenue contribution. Decarbonization is a key focus area for Embraer-X, aligning with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s goal of achieving net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050, requiring substantial investments in clean aircraft and fuels.
In their efforts to reduce carbon emissions, Embraer-X is exploring various solutions, including hydrogen fuel cells for slightly larger planes at intermediate distances, and even burning hydrogen in turbines for longer distances. Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is another avenue being pursued, with a focus on creating synthetic fuel from renewable sources to make current aircraft compatible with 100% SAF use. These efforts aim to reduce carbon emissions from aviation and contribute to the industry’s decarbonization goals.
Embraer-X’s most successful project to date is Eve Air Mobility, a spin-off company focused on VTOL development, with plans to produce a real-size prototype by the end of the year. The company’s engineering expertise has been crucial to Eve’s success, with nearly 3,000 orders to be fulfilled and expectations of hundreds of VTOLs in operation in cities like São Paulo. Embraer-X is now shifting focus to other projects such as Vector, a software for managing urban air traffic, and Beacon, a digital solution for efficient aircraft maintenance.
As Embraer-X looks towards the future, the biggest challenge lies in driving cultural shift within the company to nurture talent with forward-thinking mindsets. Balancing innovation with Embraer’s legacy and expertise will be crucial in achieving their goals of leading disruption in the aviation industry. The innovation unit remains committed to maintaining its position as an industry leader in driving sustainable innovation and decarbonization efforts in aviation.
