Chinese manufacturer Ehang has officially announced the launch of its autonomous electric two-seater passenger drone, EH216-S, set to be available for purchase from April 1, 2024, at a recommended retail price of 2.39 million yuan (approximately 300,000 euros). The EH216-S represents a significant leap in the realm of autonomous aerial vehicles, offering a competitive price point and full autonomy.
This move aligns with China’s proactive approach towards the “low-altitude economy,” focusing on the economic potential within the airspace below 1,000 meters, extendable up to 4,000 meters based on landscape characteristics and needs. With the EH216-S capable of carrying passengers without requiring a pilot, it opens up new opportunities for industries such as industrial, scientific, logistics, emergency services, and civil and military flights.
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Ehang’s innovative drone addresses challenges in accessing dangerous zones for rescue and evacuation operations, as it eliminates the need for risking pilot lives. This low-altitude economy is described as a comprehensive economic form in China, fostering a new category of unmanned aircraft for diverse applications in logistics, industry, and passenger transport.
China has actively explored various business cases and legislative scenarios for the low-altitude economy. Notably, Shenzhen implemented an “air cab” map, reducing travel time between locations from 60 to 13 minutes. In Anhui, the world’s first commercial landing of an unmanned aerial vehicle achieved regular flights in Hefei Luogang Park.
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Ehang’s EH216-S, equipped with a battery-electric drive, boasts a maximum take-off weight of 650 kilograms, a top speed of 130 km/h, and a 25-minute maximum flight duration. The drone is well-suited for scenarios like mountainous or inhospitable terrain, as well as high-rise rooftops in crowded cities, significantly reducing travel times.
While the EH216-S is intended for commercial use, catering to tours and sightseeing flights, Ehang had previously presented a version designed for firefighting in high-rise buildings, capable of carrying extinguishing foam and fire bombs.
Ehang received a type certificate for the EH216-S from the Chinese Civil Aviation Administration in October 2023, leading to its delivery to the first customers. The drone successfully completed commercial flight demonstrations in Guangzhou and Hefei in December 2023.
Mr. Huazhi Hu, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Ehang, highlighted the potential of the low-altitude economy, stating, “The low-altitude economy and its related industries present a significant market opportunity for our UAM development and serve as a new engine for future economic growth in China.” He emphasized Ehang’s commitment to safety and innovation, aiming to make pilotless aerial vehicles a common part of everyday life.
With the EH216-S making autonomous passenger aircraft more accessible, Ehang anticipates global collaboration to offer consumers a safe, autonomous, and eco-friendly air mobility experience, envisioning the integration of pilotless aerial vehicles into daily life worldwide.
