Flying Car and eVTOL News update for December 30th, 2023
It's almost 2024! Ehang, Shenzhen, and V-Space in the news
Hey y’all.
In today’s news update we have an Ehang update, Shenzhen incentives to flying-car companies, and V-Space’s new speeder project!
EHang's EH216-S Takes to the Skies
EHang has been a really impressive eVTOL (or flying car) that I’ve kept my eyes on. Recently it showed the public what it can truly muster - conducting the first commercial demonstration flights of its EH216-S autonomous eVTOL aircraft. The flights took place in Guangzhou and Hefei, China, and were witnessed by government officials, business dudes, media, and some public members as well.
During these events, multiple sightseeing flights were made over key urban areas, showcasing the EH216-S's capabilities. Imagine seeing that from the ground. It would be pretty exciting, and maybe a little scary too. While passengers were seen holding tickets, EHang clarified that these flights were actually free, intended as just a demonstration of the EH216’s abilities.
EHang is advancing its operations too, with plans to develop additional bases and routes in Guangzhou for both sightseeing and logistics purposes. This expansion is supported by significant investment plans announced by local authorities, aiming to raise RMB 10 billion ($1.42 billion) to enhance eVTOL air services in the region. Holy shit.
As the first passenger-grade ‘flying car’ granted permission for outdoor open airspace trial flights in Japan, EHang's demonstrations take us closer to commercializing the heck out of this market.
Shenzhen's Major Push for eVTOL Industry: Offering Incentives Worth 20 Million Yuan
Shenzhen just announced a huge incentive program for air mobility. The city is poised to offer up to 20 million yuan ($2.80 million) to eVTOL companies that establish operations within its fences.
This initiative is part of a plan to attract and support the super trendy eVTOL sector. In addition to the financial incentives, Shenzhen is committed to providing comprehensive support to these companies, including dedicated air space, assistance in site construction, equipment procurement, and talent acquisition.
Shenzhen's sees this as an opportunity to create more interest in their city for the trendy high tech market - that’s an accurate assessment I’d say. Creating an environment conducive to the growth of eVTOL businesses, the city is sets itself apart from others in this niche. Will I visit Shenzhen just to fly in one of these vehicles? Probably not, but I’m sure plenty will.
V-Space: Pioneering Urban Air Mobility in Korea with the Innovative eVTOL
V-Space is a Korean startup and they have created the nation's first UAM vehicle designed to transport individuals or payloads up to 120 Kg. Their eVTOL, an all-electric vehicle, is an achievement for the country - featuring a quad-copter design reminiscent of a compact, drone-like helicopter.
With a flight range of 40 miles and a maximum speed of 60 Mph, slightly below the average U.S. highway speed limit (that varies a lot by state and region). Its primary appeal lies in its ability to bypass nasty traffic congestion, (until there’s flying car traffic at least)
It is priced at $90k - which is super cheap - might be the cheapest I can think of, currrently, even cheaper than the Ryse Recon or Jetson One.
I couldn’t seem to find a video but I’ll keep looking around. Here’s the main site: https://vspaceengcom.modoo.at/