SRM University-AP Launches Student-Built Electric Air Taxi DOXI

SRM University-AP has introduced DOXI, an electric air taxi developed by its B. Tech students under the guidance of Associate Professor Pradyut Kumar Sanki. The unveiling, which included a live flight demonstration, was attended by A.P. State Quantum Mission Director C.V. Sridhar, Vice-Chancellor Ch. Satish Kumar, Dean of Research Ranjit Thapa, and other members of the university community.

A Lightweight, Multi-Use eVTOL Aircraft

DOXI is a 16-motor electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft constructed using a lightweight carbon-fibre frame. Developed by Team Skyworks, the prototype can carry up to 80 kg, achieve speeds of 50 kmph, and operate for 25 minutes per flight. Its estimated operating cost is an economical ₹3.5 per kilometre. The aircraft is designed for diverse applications, including urban air mobility, air ambulance services, disaster relief, and emergency response.

The project merges advanced technologies such as aerospace engineering, artificial intelligence, automated flight control, and embedded systems. At the launch, Mr. Sridhar emphasized DOXI's potential for infrastructure monitoring, forest analysis, and rescue operations. Vice-Chancellor Satish Kumar described the project as a testament to the university’s focus on innovation.

A Team Effort in Indigenous Innovation

Team Skyworks, the student group behind DOXI, comprises 10 members specializing in various engineering disciplines. The team includes Manikanta (Founder and Chief Test Pilot), Ajit Kumar (Co-Lead), Sai Sankar (Software Engineer), Ch Manikanta (Testing and Documentation Engineer), K Manoj Kumar (Power Electronics Engineer), J Sai Deekshith (Avionics Engineer), Ashwith (Avionics Engineer), B Ramprasad Reddy (Embedded Systems Engineer), Agastya Pandey (Software Engineer), and Sanjay (CAD Design Engineer).

Professor Sanki credited the success to the university’s mentorship, infrastructure, and research support. University administrators also highlighted that DOXI aligns with the Make in India initiative and represents a step forward in advancing urban mobility technologies.

This achievement underscores the growing role of academic institutions in driving indigenous technological innovation.

Source: The Hindu