This article is based on an official press release from Odys Aviation and Motion Applied.

Odys Aviation and Motion Applied Partner to Deliver “Closed-Loop” Hybrid Propulsion

In a significant move to accelerate the commercialization of regional vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, California-based developer Odys Aviation has announced a strategic engineering collaboration with Motion Applied. According to the joint announcement, the partnership aims to integrate Motion Applied’s high-performance silicon carbide (SiC) inverter technology with Odys Aviation’s proprietary generators to create a flight-ready, hybrid-electric propulsion system.

The collaboration focuses on a “closed-loop” architecture designed to power both Odys’ uncrewed cargo aircraft, Laila, and its planned regional passenger airliner, Alta. By combining mechanical and electrical components into a unified control stack, the companies intend to de-risk the certification process and expedite the timeline to commercial delivery. Initial operations for the cargo platform are targeted for 2026.

Engineering a Unified Propulsion System

The core of this partnership is the integration of Motion Applied’s AMPEX MCU-600 inverter with Odys Aviation’s hybrid powertrain. Motion Applied, which rebranded from McLaren Applied in August 2025, brings extensive experience from high-performance sectors such as Formula 1 motorsport and mining. The companies state that this collaboration moves away from assembling disparate off-the-shelf parts in favor of a tightly coupled system.

Technical Specifications

According to technical details released by the companies, the new propulsion system leverages an 800V architecture and Silicon Carbide (SiC) technology. Key specifications include:

• Efficiency: The system boasts a typical efficiency of greater than 97%, peaking at 99%.
• Switching Frequency: A variable range of 8–32 kHz allows for smoother power delivery and reduces the size of passive components like capacitors and inductors.
• Power Density: The system is designed for high power density, a critical factor for aircraft weight savings. Marine variants of the technology have reportedly delivered over 400kW in a package weighing approximately 6.4kg.

The “closed-loop” control system is designed to react instantly to the rapid power fluctuations required during the transition from vertical hover to forward flight. Furthermore, the system features “graceful degradation” capabilities, allowing it to isolate faults, such as a single winding failure, and continue operating safely rather than shutting down completely.

“Hybrid propulsion must be architected from the ground up as a unified system.”

, James Dorris, CEO of Odys Aviation

Scalable Platforms: From Cargo to Passengers

The propulsion technology developed through this partnership is scalable and intended for two distinct airframes currently under development by Odys Aviation.

Laila: Uncrewed Cargo

The first beneficiary of the new system will be Laila, an autonomous aircraft designed for logistics and defense applications.

• Range: Approximately 450 miles (725 km).
• Payload: Around 130 lbs (60 kg).
• Timeline: A pre-production prototype has been built, with flight testing scheduled in the United States followed by operational trials in Oman in the first quarter of 2026.

Alta: Regional Air Mobility

The technology will subsequently scale to power Alta, a larger aircraft focused on regional passenger transport and heavy cargo.

• Capacity: Designed for 9 passengers or approximately 3,500 lbs of cargo.
• Performance: The aircraft targets a cruise speed of roughly 345 mph and a hybrid range of 750 miles.
• Certification: Full type certification is currently targeted for approximately 2028.

AirPro News Analysis

This partnership highlights a critical shift in the eVTOL and regional air mobility sector: a move from pure airframe aerodynamics to a “propulsion first” certification strategy. By partnering with Motion Applied, a supplier with “production-proven” hardware heritage, Odys Aviation appears to be mitigating the development risks that often plague startups attempting to build proprietary electrical systems from scratch.

Furthermore, the focus on hybrid-electric-aviation propulsion distinguishes Odys from competitors like Joby or Archer, who are primarily focused on all-electric battery systems for short urban hops. The hybrid approach addresses “range anxiety” and infrastructure gaps, theoretically enabling flights between major regional hubs, such as Los Angeles to San Francisco, without requiring immediate charging infrastructure at every destination.

Strategic Context and Timeline

The collaboration comes shortly after Motion Applied’s rebranding from McLaren Applied in August 2025, signaling the UK-based company’s broader push into high-reliability industrial and aerospace sectors. For Odys Aviation, the deal follows a $26 million Series A funding round secured in October 2025 to accelerate flight testing.

Samir Maha, CEO of Motion Applied, emphasized the alignment of the two companies, noting that the partnership brings “absolute clarity of purpose” by integrating electrical, mechanical, and software teams early in the design cycle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main advantage of the AMPEX MCU-600 inverter?
The inverter uses Silicon Carbide (SiC) technology, which offers superior thermal handling and efficiency compared to traditional silicon. Its 800V architecture allows for thinner wiring, reducing the overall weight of the aircraft.

When will Odys Aviation’s aircraft begin operations?
The uncrewed cargo aircraft, Laila, is scheduled for proof-of-concept operations in Oman in Q1 2026. The passenger aircraft, Alta, is targeting certification around 2028.

Why is Odys Aviation pursuing hybrid propulsion instead of all-electric?
Hybrid propulsion offers significantly longer range, making it suitable for regional travel (e.g., 750 miles) rather than just short intra-city hops. It also reduces reliance on ground charging infrastructure.

Sources: eVTOL Insights, Odys Aviation, Motion Applied