The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) issued a mass production license (PC) for the EH216-S, a domestic unmanned electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) flying taxi model on March 7. This license is significant as it is the world’s first PC license in the global eVTOL industry, indicating a major step towards mass production and commercial operation. Developed and manufactured by Guangzhou-based EHang, the EH216-S received a type certificate (TC) and airworthiness certificate (AC) from the CAAC last year. This flying taxi model can be used for passenger transportation, sky tours, cargo transportation, and emergency care.
The mass production quality management system for the EH216-S covers various aspects including raw materials, supply management, production organization, quality control, pre-delivery testing, repair, and after-sales warranty. Each step in the manufacturing process is regulated to ensure that every aircraft and part meets design and safety requirements before leaving the production line. With dimensions of 1.93m in height and 5.73m in width, the EH216-S has a maximum takeoff weight of 620kg and is designed to carry two passengers and luggage. It is equipped with eight foldable wings, 16 thrusters, and can fly up to 30 km at a maximum speed of 130 km/h. The vehicle runs on green energy and features smart systems such as flight control and battery management systems.
EHang’s founder, chairman, and CEO, Hu Huazhi, stated that the company aims to introduce a safe and reliable eVTOL model to the global market to provide convenient and eco-friendly aerial transportation services. China has been actively promoting a low-altitude flight economy, with plans to host the 8th World Drone Congress in Shenzhen city from May 24 to May 26, 2024, focusing on the theme “Future low-altitude flight economy” with the participation of around 500 domestic and foreign businesses.