ZACKS·2025-12-26 08:31Core Viewpoint - Joby Aviation is advancing its electric air taxi services through a partnership with Metropolis Technologies to develop 25 vertiports across the U.S., aiming to accelerate air taxi adoption [2][3]. Group 1: Joby Aviation Developments - Joby Aviation has partnered with Metropolis Technologies to create 25 vertiports for its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, utilizing Metropolis' AI-based recognition technology [2]. - The partnership follows Metropolis' $1.5 billion acquisition of SP+ and a $1.6 billion Series D funding round, with plans to assess new and existing facilities for integration into early electric air taxi markets [3]. - Joby has completed its acquisition of Blade Air Mobility's urban air mobility passenger business, marking a significant step towards launching commercial operations [5]. Group 2: Technological Integration - Joby plans to incorporate AI-based recognition technology from Metropolis, including computer vision and biometrics, to enhance passenger experience [4]. - Metropolis will introduce its Bags VIP service to Joby's operations, aiming to alleviate passenger concerns regarding luggage handling during air taxi flights [4]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - Archer Aviation, a competitor in the eVTOL space, is developing an air taxi network in the Miami area to provide an alternative to road traffic [7]. - Archer has partnered with Karem Aircraft to access advanced rotor and tiltrotor technologies for next-generation autonomous aircraft, supporting both commercial and military applications [8]. Group 4: Financial Performance and Outlook - Joby shares have seen double-digit gains over the past six months, outperforming the Zacks Aerospace-Defense industry, although it is trading at a premium compared to its industry peers [9]. - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Joby's losses in Q4 2025, Q1 2026, and full-year 2025 and 2026 has widened over the past 60 days [10].