It’s been several years now since Chinese AAV (autonomous aerial vehicle) manufacturer EHang introduced the world to its game-changing air mobility solutions, yet we are still waiting to take a ride in its highly anticipated air taxis. But even so, the company seems to do just fine, announcing that it just landed its biggest pre-order in Japan.
EHang recently announced that Japan-based helicopter service provider AirX has placed a pre-order for 50 units of its EH216 AAV, which is the company’s dual-seat autonomous air taxi. AirX’s reservation platforms allow clients to book trips for over 100 helicopter sightseeing routes and private charters in Japan. So far, it boasts of having served more than 15,000 chartered flight customers.
According to Tezuka Kiwamu, AirX CEO, the EH216 autonomous aerial vehicle can provide tourists with cost-effective aerial sightseeing services in a safe and convenient way, which is why EHang has been chosen as a partner for its business.
On the market since 2016, EHang first revealed its 184 autonomous passenger drone and has continued to grow and develop better models since then. At least in theory... The EH216 is designed as a short-range AAV with a two-passenger capacity and a maximum payload of 220 kg (485 lb). With the maximum payload onboard, it can fly for up to 35 km (21.7 miles), being able to reach speeds of over 80 mph (130 kph) and an altitude of 3,000 m (over 9,800 ft).
It uses 16 electric motors, comes with two gull-wing doors, and its battery requires two hours to fully recharge.
With vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capabilities, the AAV is a space saver that doesn’t require large runways or airports to operate, which makes it a more convenient and effective solution for urban air mobility.
EHang’s 216 autonomous air taxi completed its maiden, no-pilot test flight in Japan last summer.
In addition to the EH216, the Chinese manufacturer is also working on a long-range electric two-seater called the VT-30, which claims that can cover distances of up to 186 miles (300 km) on a charge.
EHang hopes that the large AirX pre-order will facilitate several UAM (urban air mobility) projects in Japan and may provide air taxi services for the 2025 World Expo in Osaka.
You can watch one of the EH216's latest test flights in the video below, at the Fukushima Robot Test Field in Japan.
Cristina’s always found writing more comfortable to do than speaking, which is why she chose print over broadcast media in college. When she’s not typing, she also loves riding non-motorized two-wheelers, going on hikes with her dog, and rocking her electric guitars. Full profile
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