EHang, a trailblazer in the electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) industry, has officially disclosed the price of its autonomous air taxi. The EH216-S is set to revolutionize transportation with its pilotless design, making it an attractive option for those eager to embrace the future of passenger-carrying electric aircraft.
Groundbreaking Pricing in China
EHang has set a surprising price point of RMB 2.39 million (approximately $330,000) for the EH216-S in the Chinese market. This unexpectedly affordable tag positions the autonomous air taxi as an enticing option for individuals keen on experiencing the next era of transportation. The pricing considers China’s production capabilities and market demand, making it a strategic move to promote widespread adoption.
EHang’s Journey to Certification
EHang has been a frontrunner in the industry, achieving a significant milestone last year by becoming the world’s first certified pilot-free passenger-carrying eVTOL. The company received the Type Certificate (TC) from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) in October, followed by the Standard Airworthiness Certificate (AC) a few months later. By the end of 2023, EHang successfully delivered the first units, establishing itself as a leader in the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector.
Innovative Features of EH216-S
The EH216-S stands out in the eVTOL landscape due to its pioneering pilotless design. This feature played a crucial role in obtaining certification and underscores EHang’s commitment to advancing the AAM industry. Initially focusing on aerial sightseeing, the EH216-S will operate in Shenzen, which is set to become a hub for this innovative form of travel.
The Luohu Sports and Leisure Park in the Luohu District has been selected as the hub’s location, emphasizing its suitability for pilotless flights and potential for aerial tourism. As one of the world’s first centers dedicated to autonomous air travel, it signals a transformative future where zero-emission flights become commonplace.
EH216-S Specifications and Applications
Designed for short-distance, emission-free travel, the EH216-S is a two-seat eVTOL with a range of up to 30 km (18.6 miles) and a maximum speed of 130 kph (80 mph). Besides leisure and tourism, it has found applications in police work, with the Spanish National Police being the first in the European Union to incorporate an eVTOL in their fleet.
Aerial tourism operations aboard the EH216-S are slated to commence at the Luohu AAM hub in the coming year, marking a significant step toward transforming travel through affordable pricing and cutting-edge technology.
