In a groundbreaking development for the future of transportation, Chinese vehicle manufacturer EHang has been awarded the world’s first production certificate to manufacture self-controlled flying taxis in China. This milestone was announced by company representatives on April 7, marking a significant leap forward in the realm of autonomous aerial mobility.
According to Live Science, EHang’s EH216-S, described as a “passenger-carrying pilotless” electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle, has received clearance for mass production from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). While various vehicle manufacturers have been developing eVTOL prototypes for test flights, EHang’s achievement represents a pivotal step toward commercializing this innovative mode of transportation.
Huazhi Hu, CEO of EHang, expressed the company’s vision to introduce safe and reliable pilotless eVTOL aircraft to the global market, providing autonomous and eco-friendly air mobility services to the masses. The EH216-S can accommodate two occupants and features a self-driving system, eliminating the need for a pilot and making it specifically designed for passenger transport. EHang assures that the vehicle has undergone rigorous testing, including both crewed and uncrewed flights, ensuring its safety and reliability.
This latest development builds upon EHang’s previous endeavors, including the debut of the EHang 184 “passenger drone” in 2016. The EH216-S is poised to revolutionize various sectors, with plans to integrate it into services such as air taxi operations, aerial tourism, airport shuttles, and cross-island transportation.
As EHang continues to push the boundaries of aerial mobility technology, the granting of the production certificate underscores China’s commitment to fostering innovation in the transportation sector and heralds a new era of autonomous air travel on the horizon.
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