EHang Pilotless Air Taxi Available for $330,000 in China
The highly anticipated EHang pilotless air taxi is finally hitting the market, and the price tag may surprise you. The manufacturer recently announced that their electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft will be available for purchase in China for RMB 2.39 million, which is roughly $330,000. This price is significantly more affordable than previously speculated, making it an attractive option for those looking to experience the future of transportation.
It’s important to note that this price is specifically for the domestic Chinese market, where the EHang air taxi is currently available. The pricing takes into account the country’s production capabilities and estimated market demand. Still, it’s impressive to see a pilotless, all-electric passenger-carrying air taxi priced at under $350,000.
EHang has always been at the forefront of innovation in the industry. Last year, they made history by becoming the world’s first certified pilot-free passenger-carrying eVTOL. The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) granted them the Type Certificate (TC) in October, followed by the Standard Airworthiness Certificate (AC) just a few months later. By the end of 2023, EHang successfully delivered the first units to their customers, solidifying their position as a leader in the field.
What sets the EH216-S apart from other eVTOLs is its pilotless design. This groundbreaking feature played a significant role in its certification process and marked a major milestone for the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) industry as a whole. Initially, the EH216-S will primarily operate in the realm of aerial sightseeing. The Shenzen municipality, known for its AAM operations, will soon house a dedicated center for EH216-S operations, making it a hub for this innovative form of travel.
The Luohu Sports and Leisure Park in the Luohu District has been chosen as the location for this pioneering center. It was selected based on its suitability for pilotless flights and its potential for aerial tourism. This center is one of the first of its kind in the world, signaling a future where passenger-carrying zero-emission flights become the norm.
The EH216-S is a two-seat eVTOL specifically designed for short-distance, emission-free travel. Unlike piloted aircraft, it has a limited range of up to 30 km (18.6 miles) and a maximum speed of 130 kph (80 mph). In addition to leisure and tourism operations, the EH216-S has also been chosen for police work. The Spanish National Police became the first in the European Union to include an eVTOL in their fleet, showcasing the versatility and potential of this electric aircraft.
Aerial tourism operations aboard the autonomous EHang air taxi are set to begin at the new AAM hub in Luohu next year. With its affordable price and groundbreaking technology, the EH216-S is poised to revolutionize the way we travel.
