China will have drone taxis in the sky by 2030

In the next five years, Chinese cities may enter a new era of air transport services. EHang, a startup specializing in aviation innovation and technology, announced that by 2030, “flying taxis” will begin to actively operate in the skies of China. This was stated by the company’s CFO Conor Yang in an interview with the South China Morning Post.

Not on the road, but in the sky - a new era

According to the company’s representative, if there is infrastructure in large cities, including runways, such services can be implemented not only on a route basis, but also individually. EHang states this not only as a possibility, but with full confidence. Yang emphasized that “I believe that by 2030 such drone taxis will be widespread in China.”

EH216-S — a trip in the sky for tourists

EHang plans to launch its electric flying machines of the EH216-S model for tourism purposes by the end of this year. These drones are used to fly over landmarks in cities such as Guangzhou and Hefei. However, for now, this is only possible on specific routes.

The maximum flight range of the EH216-S model is 30 kilometers and the speed is 130 kilometers per hour. The price is set at 331 thousand dollars and it can carry two passengers.

Thailand and export markets

The EH216-S is attracting interest not only in China, but also in other countries. In particular, test flights in Thailand began in November last year, and services may soon be introduced there. There is also a high demand for drones from the Middle East, Southeast Asia and Latin America.

EHang says that it is not afraid of competition, because the drone segment has great potential on a global scale. The company sees itself as one of the leaders in the market and intends to maintain this position.

Cooperation and development path

EHang is also working on expanding its production capacity. By the end of this year, the company aims to produce 1,000 drones per year instead of 300. In this regard, it is cooperating with battery manufacturers such as Gotion and large automobile companies such as Changan Automobile.

The company is also working on creating several new battery models. EHang also operates on the US stock market and is now considering placing shares on another exchange.

New devices: VT-35 is being prepared

The company will introduce a new product after the EH216-S - the VT-35 drone. It is designed for medium-range routes - up to about 300 km. This device is an evolutionary continuation of the previous VT-30 model and has been redesigned to ensure efficient use of electricity and high cruising speed.

Zamin.uz editorial staff continues to follow the EHang project. Are you ready to test this sky taxi service?

Photo: South China Morning Post Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!