First flying taxi licensed for mass production

Chinese authorities on March 7 granted a mass production license (PC) for the EH216-S, a domestically produced unmanned electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) flying taxi model.

EH216-S flying taxi model in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, China. Photo: CFP — EH216-S flying taxi model in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, China. Photo: *CFP*

The license, issued by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), is the world's first PC license in the global eVTOL industry, marking a major leap forward toward mass production of the vehicle and subsequent commercial operation. The EH216-S, developed and manufactured by Guangzhou-based EHang, received type certification (TC) and airworthiness certification (AC) from the CAAC last year, according to CGTN . The flying taxi model can be widely used in various fields such as passenger transportation, high-altitude tours, cargo transportation, and emergency medical services.

The mass production quality management system for the EH216-S includes raw materials, supply management, production organization, quality control, pre-delivery testing, repair and after-sales warranty. The system establishes clear regulations for each step in the production process, ensuring that each aircraft and part leaving the line strictly complies with design and safety requirements.

The EH216-S is 1.93 meters tall and 5.73 meters wide, with a maximum takeoff weight of 620 kg, and is designed to carry two passengers and luggage. With eight foldable wings and 16 thrusters, the vehicle can fly up to 30 km at a maximum speed of 130 km/h. The EH216-S uses green energy and is equipped with many intelligent systems, including flight control and battery management systems, and high-speed wireless networks. Hu Huazhi, founder, chairman and CEO of EHang, said the company's goal is to introduce a safe and reliable eVTOL model to the global market, thereby providing people with autonomous and environmentally friendly air mobility services.

China has stepped up efforts to promote its low-altitude economy in recent years. The country will host the 8th World Drone Congress from May 24 to 26, 2024 in Shenzhen. The congress, themed “The Future Low-Altitude Economy,” will bring together nearly 500 domestic and foreign companies.

An Khang (According to CGTN )

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