Imagine flying over a city in a pilotless electric aircraft that can get you from point A to point B in minutes without a pilot on board. Sounds like science fiction, right? Well, no more.
China-based Yihan has become the first company in the world to receive airworthiness certification for a fully autonomous vehicle. Air taxi transporting passengers.
What is an electric air taxi?
Ehang’s EH216-S air taxi is an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft that can carry up to two passengers or 600 pounds of cargo. Powered by 16 electric rotors, it can fly up to 29 miles at speeds of up to 130 miles per hour.
How do electric air taxis operate without a pilot?
Air taxis are controlled by a central command and control center that monitors flight status, routes and weather conditions.
Passengers can simply select their destination on the in-flight touchscreen and enjoy the ride without having to worry about controlling the plane.
Air taxis do not require traditional infrastructure such as airports or runways. It can take off and land vertically from flat surfaces such as rooftops, parking lots, and parks.
China-based Yihan has become the first company in the world to receive airworthiness certification for a fully autonomous passenger transport air taxi. (Ihan)
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Air taxis use electricity to reduce the negative environmental impact of emissions. It can be fully charged in 2 hours and has low noise levels.
EH216-S vehicles have multiple redundancies in systems such as backup batteries, rotors, and communication links.
It is also equipped with an emergency landing system and parachute in case of a breakdown.
How did these China-based electric air taxis get permission to fly?
Since 2014, more than 40,000 test flights have been conducted in various locations around the world. In January 2021, Yihan applied for a type certificate from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), which officially recognizes the aircraft’s airworthiness.
China-based Yihan has become the first company in the world to receive airworthiness certification for a fully autonomous passenger transport air taxi. (Ihan)
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CAAC evaluated Ehang’s air taxi on more than 500 parameters, including structural strength, software simulation, flight performance, and electromagnetic compatibility. This process took him over 1,000 days and involved extensive laboratory, ground and flight testing.
On October 15, 2023, Ehang announced that it had received certification from CAAC, making it the first company in the world to receive such certification for a passenger-carrying eVTOL aircraft. This means Yihan can start commercial air taxi operations in China. “With this certification as a starting point, we will begin commercial operations of the EH216-S air taxi, with safety above all else,” said Huazi Hu, Founder Chairman and CEO of Ehang.
China-based Yihan has become the first company in the world to receive airworthiness certification for a fully autonomous passenger transport air taxi. (Ihan)
What are the potential uses for electric air taxis?
Ehang’s air taxi has wide applications in urban air mobility (UAM), which uses aircraft to provide transportation services in urban areas.
It helps you avoid traffic jams and save commuting time. It will take you to places that are difficult to reach by car or public transportation. Whether you need to go to a business meeting, tourist attraction, or hospital, Ehang’s air taxis will get you there quickly and conveniently. Ehang’s air taxis can also give you a new perspective of the city by taking in the skyline, landmarks, and nature all from above.
In addition to transporting people, these aircraft can also be used to deliver goods such as luggage, medicine, and food. We can also respond to emergencies such as natural disasters and accidents. In time-sensitive situations, these vehicles can quickly and safely transport needed medical personnel and equipment to the scene.
China-based Yihan has become the first company in the world to receive airworthiness certification for a fully autonomous passenger transport air taxi. (Ihan)
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What are the challenges of air taxis without a pilot?
Ehang’s air taxi is a breakthrough innovation that has the potential to revolutionize the future of transportation. However, it also faces several challenges in terms of regulation, technology, market demand, and social acceptance.
China-based Yihan has become the first company in the world to receive airworthiness certification for a fully autonomous passenger transport air taxi. (Ihan)
Ehang’s air taxis must comply with the laws and regulations of the various countries and regions in which they operate. They also need to coordinate with other aircraft using the same airspace. Ehang has worked closely with regulators to establish UAM standards and policies.
One of the major hurdles is striving to be socially accepted and trusted by the public. Manufacturers need to educate and inform us about the benefits and risks of UAM. Potential issues and concerns such as noise, privacy, and environmental impact should also be addressed. Meanwhile, Yihan has been conducting public demonstrations and campaigns to raise awareness and confidence in UAM.
China-based Yihan has become the first company in the world to receive airworthiness certification for a fully autonomous passenger transport air taxi. (Ihan)
Cart important points
Ehang’s air taxi is a pioneering achievement that could change the way we travel in cities in this country. Ehang opens up new possibilities and opportunities for UAM by securing the industry’s first approval for a fully autonomous passenger transport air taxi. But all new technology comes with challenges, which Ehang must address if it is to succeed in the future.
What do you think about the idea of traveling by air taxi without a pilot? Do you think this is a recipe for trouble? Email us at. Cyberguy.com/Contact.
China-based Yihan has become the first company in the world to receive airworthiness certification for a fully autonomous passenger transport air taxi. (Ihan)
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China-based Yihan has become the first company in the world to receive airworthiness certification for a fully autonomous passenger transport air taxi. (Ihan)
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