At this year’s CES 2024 , Hyundai’s Supernal division showcased its groundbreaking electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, the S-A2 concept. Unlike previous discussions about joining Uber’s air taxi network, Hyundai is now gearing up to redefine urban air mobility with this innovative flying vehicle.
The S-A2 is designed to cruise at 120mph and reach altitudes of 1,500 feet, promising a new era for short-distance travel. Its battery can handle trips ranging from 25 to 40 miles – perfect for quick commutes between downtown areas and airports.
One standout feature is its noise reduction capability. Supernal claims the S-A2 will “operate as quietly as a diswasher,” emitting only 65 decibels during takeoff and landing and a mere 45dB while cruising horizontally. This aligns with the industry trend of prioritizing electric aircraft for environmental benefits.
ALSO READ: Volkswagen Unveils Groundbreaking AI Chatbot Integration for In-Car Conversations at CES 2024
Feature | Description | Notes |
---|---|---|
Passenger Capacity | Pilot + 4 passengers | Comfortable seating for pilot and passengers. |
Cruise Speed | 120 mph (193 km/h) | Efficient travel for short-distance trips. |
Maximum Altitude | 1,500 ft (457 m) | Soars above traffic congestion for panoramic views. |
Range | 25-40 miles (40-64 km) | Ideal for connecting downtown areas, airports, and suburbs. |
Takeoff/Landing Noise | 65 decibels (comparable to a dishwasher) | Quieter than traditional helicopters. |
Cruise Noise | 45 decibels (exceptionally quiet for an aircraft) | Enjoy a peaceful in-flight experience. |
Propulsion | Distributed electric with eight all-tilting rotors | Smooth and efficient operation. |
Safety | Robust airframe, redundant systems, global aviation standards | Prioritizes passenger safety and reliability. |
Design | V-tail, clean and minimalist interior, fine leather upholstery | Stylish and comfortable cabin. |
Battery Technology | Lithium-ion (with exploration of lithium-metal and solid-state options) | Focus on improving range and flight time. |
Sustainability | Replaceable battery module, future-proof design | Minimizes environmental impact. |
Modularity | Adaptable interior for customization | Cater to diverse passenger needs and preferences. |
Target Launch Date | 2028 | Vision for bringing urban air travel to reality |
Supernal’s S-A2 is part of a broader shift in the industry. Initially dubbed “flying cars” due to their vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, these vehicles are now adopting new names like urban air mobility, advanced air mobility, and air taxis as they navigate regulatory processes.
Despite challenges in the industry, Supernal, backed by Hyundai, aims to leverage the automaker’s production capabilities. The road to regulatory approval is still long and challenging, requiring three certifications from the FAA.
Hyundai is exploring different battery options, including lithium-metal and solid-state batteries, Shin explained in an interview with Bloomberg TV. Supernal recognizes the challenges in electric flight, especially in battery technology. The focus is on continuous improvement, with plans to upgrade to lighter cells as technology advances. Beyond technical aspects, the interior is envisioned to be cozy and luxurious, featuring fine leather upholstery and a clean, minimalistic design.
ALSO READ: Your Palm is now the Ultimate Door Key Here is how
Hyundai is not alone in this venture. Stellantis, the owner of Jeep, Chrysler, and Dodge, is committed to mass-producing air taxis for Archer Aviation. Major airlines like United and Delta and industry giants Boeing and NASA are also heavily invested in this transformative technology.
As Supernal charts its course for a 2028 production timeline, the electric air taxi industry appears ready for a transformative takeoff, with Hyundai leading the charge into this futuristic mode of urban travel.