Daily commuting could soon take to the skies as China moves closer to making flying taxis a commonplace reality. In mid-October, the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) awarded the world’s first type certificate for passenger-carrying unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) to Guangzhou-based transportation company Ehang.
This certification allows Ehang to operate autonomous electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft within China, signaling the potential commencement of commercial flights. CEO Hu Huazhi expressed optimism about the company’s ability to transform urban transportation.
eVTOLs are powered by electricity, making them a clean and quiet alternative to traditional helicopters. Some models, including Ehang’s, are fully autonomous, eliminating the need for a pilot. Ehang’s current model features eight rotors with 16 propellers, achieving speeds up to 130 kilometers per hour and covering distances of up to 30 kilometers. This makes them ideal for intra-city travel, potentially reducing a trip from city center to airport to just 10-15 minutes.
The tilt rotor design, favored by companies like California’s Joby Aviation and Shanghai’s TCab Tech, offers improved aerodynamics. TCab Tech recently completed its first flight tests in October with the E20 prototype, a tilt-rotor eVTOL.
China is heavily investing in sustainable aviation, viewing eVTOLs as a key component. In early October, four ministries, including the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and the CAAC, released a development outline for green aviation manufacturing spanning 2023-2035, with plans for eVTOL pilot operations by 2025.
Industry expert Zhang Junyi from Oliver Wayman highlighted that recent advancements in battery technology, carbon fiber materials, and autonomous navigation have matured enough to spur the eVTOL market. He anticipates that the certification process will set industry standards, accelerating market growth.
Beyond commuting, eVTOLs have versatile applications such as emergency services and tourism. For instance, Paris plans to deploy electric flying taxis during the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games to ease traffic congestion and provide unique aerial views for sightseeing.
While regulations and safety remain critical concerns, the burgeoning eVTOL market is attracting talent and investment, driving forward the future of urban air mobility.
What are your thoughts on flying taxis? Would you dare to take a ride? Share your opinions in the comments below!
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
