Hyundai says its electric air taxi business will take flight in 2028. Hyundai unveils its electric air taxi at CES, which could be powered by solid-state batteries
Hyundai, the South Korean automotive giant, has been making significant strides in the field of electric air taxis. The company has unveiled its latest iteration of an electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, called the S-A2, which is designed to shuttle passengers by 2028.
This ambitious plan marks a major milestone in the development of electric air taxis, which have the potential to revolutionize urban mobility.
The Vision of Electric Air Taxis
Hyundai’s vision for electric air taxis is centered around the idea of providing a sustainable and efficient mode of transportation for urban commuters.
The S-A2 is designed to operate in suburban and inner-city areas, with trips ranging from 25 to 40 miles. The aircraft is equipped with eight all-tilting rotors and a distributed electric propulsion system, which allows it to cruise at 120 miles per hour at an altitude of 1,500 feet.
The Technology Behind the S-A2
The S-A2 is a V-tail electric aircraft that incorporates advanced technology to ensure safety and efficiency. The aircraft is loaded with redundant components, including the powertrain, flight controls, and avionics, to ensure that critical systems are protected in the event of a failure.
The interior of the aircraft is designed to be modular, allowing for easy replacement of batteries as technology improves.
The Road to Commercialization
Hyundai’s Supernal, the advanced air mobility company under Hyundai Motor Group, has been working tirelessly to bring the S-A2 to market.
The company has grown to a 600-person team and is leveraging the technical and business capabilities of Hyundai Motor Group and aviation suppliers around the world to achieve this goal.
Supernal has also established partnerships with key players in the industry, including Uber Elevate, to develop and potentially mass-produce air taxis for a future aerial rideshare network.
The Challenges Ahead
While the S-A2 is an impressive achievement, there are still significant challenges to overcome before it can be commercially launched.
The aircraft must undergo a lengthy Type 1 certification process with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) before it can fly commercially.
Supernal will begin testing the technology demonstrator vehicles this year in California and submit its application to the FAA. In 2025, the company will submit its proposal for means of compliance.
The Future of Electric Air Taxis
Hyundai’s electric air taxi is designed to operate as quietly as a dishwasher, with a noise level of 65 decibels during takeoff and landing and 45 decibels while cruising.
The company is exploring different battery options, including lithium-metal and solid-state batteries, to ensure the sustainability of the aircraft. With its focus on sustainability and comfort, Hyundai is poised to revolutionize urban mobility with its electric air taxis.
Conclusion
Hyundai’s ambitious plan to bring electric air taxis to major cities by 2028 marks a significant milestone in the development of this technology.
With its focus on sustainability, comfort, and efficiency, Hyundai is poised to revolutionize urban mobility and provide a new era of flight for commuters.
