French hybrid electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) startup Ascendance has secured two strategic partnership agreements in Malaysia to advance its innovative aviation technologies. The first is a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Pen Aviation, focusing on integrating Ascendance’s Sterna hybrid propulsion system into regional air mobility solutions. The Sterna system, designed for efficiency and sustainability, powers Ascendance’s Atea aircraft, which can carry four passengers up to 400 km (250 miles). This collaboration aims to explore applications for urban and regional transport in Malaysia, leveraging Pen Aviation’s local expertise to adapt the technology for Southeast Asian markets, enhancing connectivity in urban centers like Kuala Lumpur and addressing sustainability goals.
The second partnership involves an agreement with a Malaysian entity (not specified in the source) to explore operational frameworks for deploying the Atea eVTOL in the region. This deal emphasizes establishing regulatory and infrastructural support for advanced air mobility, aligning with Malaysia’s ambitions to modernize its transportation sector and reduce carbon emissions. Ascendance’s hybrid approach, combining electric and fuel-based propulsion, offers a practical solution for extending range while minimizing environmental impact, making it suitable for Malaysia’s diverse geography, from urban hubs to remote areas. These partnerships position Malaysia as a key player in the Asia-Pacific eVTOL market, projected to grow significantly with increasing demand for innovative transport solutions.
The agreements reflect Ascendance’s broader strategy to expand its footprint in Asia, where rapid urbanization and supportive government policies create fertile ground for eVTOL adoption. By partnering with local stakeholders, Ascendance aims to tailor its technology to regional needs, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations and fostering public acceptance. The initiatives also support Malaysia’s economic diversification goals, potentially creating jobs and boosting technological innovation.
(Source: Aviation Week Network)
