Chinese Flying Car Maker Reveals Eye-Popping Price Tag - Are They Serious?

In the realm of electric vehicles of all kinds, we often think of cars, but what if I told you that the next big thing isn't just on the road but up in the air? That's right, aviation is undergoing a transformation of its own, and it's thanks to companies like EHang, the Chinese electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) developer. Today, I'm here to introduce you to the EH216-S, EHang's latest creation, which is set to change the way we think about personal air travel.

First things first, let's talk about that price. EHang has given its EH216-S an official price tag of RMB 2.39 million, which translates to approximately $333,000. Well, at this point I expect you to ask – "Is this the cost of a small aircraft or a flying car?" Well, my friends, it's a bit of both. The EH216-S is not your typical car or airplane; it's a revolutionary blend of both worlds, designed to take off and land vertically and whisk you away to your destination in style.

Powered by a set of batteries, this eVTOL marvel has a maximum takeoff weight of 650 kilograms (about 1,433 pounds). While that might not sound like much when compared to traditional aircraft, remember, this isn't meant to be a replacement for the good old Cessna. The EH216-S boasts a maximum flight speed of 130 kilometers per hour (approximately 81 miles per hour) and can stay airborne for a maximum of 25 minutes on a single charge. That's enough to get you from point A to point B in most urban areas with time to spare for some scenic sightseeing.

But before you start setting up crowdfunding campaigns or raid your kids’ college fund, let's address the elephant in the sky – the EH216-S isn't the first eVTOL to hit the market, nor will it be the last. Companies all over the world are racing to develop their own versions of flying cars and aerial taxis. EHang, however, stands out for its commitment to safety and compliance. They applied for certification for the EH216-S from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) back in December 2020. After rigorous reviews and evaluations, on October 13, 2023, the EH216-S was officially issued the coveted Type Certificate, giving it the green light for commercial operation as a manned drone. This achievement speaks volumes about the dedication to safety and regulatory compliance in the development of these cutting-edge vehicles.

But EHang didn't stop at regulatory approvals; they swiftly moved forward. On December 21, 2023, the EH216-S received the standard Airworthiness Certificate, a crucial milestone in its journey towards becoming a staple in personal air travel. This certificate ensures that the vehicle meets all the necessary safety and operational standards, providing peace of mind to both passengers and operators.

Just one week later, on December 28, the EH216-S made history by completing its first-ever commercial flight demonstrations in Guangzhou and Hefei. This marked a significant moment for EHang and the entire eVTOL industry. The EH216-S showcased its capabilities and potential, leaving onlookers in awe as it gracefully soared through the skies. It was a sight to behold and a glimpse into the future of urban air mobility.

So, what's next for the EH216-S and the eVTOL industry as a whole? EHang envisions a future where eVTOLs like the EH216-S become a common sight in our cities, providing efficient and eco-friendly transportation solutions. The EH216-S is set to be commercially operated in various scenarios, including low-altitude tours and city sightseeing, but its potential goes beyond that. As technology advances and infrastructure develops, we could soon see eVTOLs revolutionizing urban transportation, reducing congestion on the streets, and offering a new level of convenience and speed in our daily lives.

Let’s not forget that EHang isn't the only player in the Chinese eVTOL landscape. XPeng AeroHT, Xpeng's flying car division, is also making significant strides. They introduced the X1, a car-sized eVTOL capable of vertical takeoff and landing, at the Shanghai auto show in April 2021. This remarkable vehicle has the potential to change the way we think about commuting, offering the ability to bypass traffic and take flight from parking spaces.

XPeng AeroHT's development plans include eVTOL flying cars and modular flying cars, further expanding the possibilities for personal air travel. As they prepare to open pre-orders for their modular flying car in China in the fourth quarter, with mass production and delivery slated for the fourth quarter of 2025, it's clear that the race to the skies is well underway.

The EH216-S is so much more than just a vehicle; it's a symbol of progress and innovation in the world of transportation. While the price tag may raise plenty of eyebrows, it represents the pioneering spirit of companies like EHang, who are pushing the boundaries of what's possible in personal air travel. With the EH216-S and similar eVTOLs, we're witnessing the birth of a new era, where the skies are no longer the exclusive domain of commercial airliners and helicopters but accessible to individuals seeking a faster, more efficient way to navigate our increasingly congested urban landscapes.

Well, there you have it, folks – a glimpse into the future where the skies are the limit, and the price tags are sky-high. The EH216-S and its $333,000 price tag may seem like a hefty investment, but it's a testament to the innovation happening in the eVTOL world. As we soar into a new era of transportation, it's okay to be skeptical, crack a few jokes, and wonder if flying cars will become as common as today's sedans.

Who knows? In a few years, that $333,000 price tag might look like a bargain for the freedom to escape traffic and soar above the crowds. Until then, fasten your seatbelts and stay tuned for more electrifying adventures in the world of eVTOLs. And who knows, maybe one day I'll be writing about how you can snag a used EH216-S at a steal of a price. Happy flying, everyone!