(ECNS) -- The EH216-S, China’s first self-developed unmanned eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft, will commence commercial operations in February 2025 in Lingshui Li Autonomous County, south China's Hainan Province.
The aircraft was showcased during a launch ceremony for the county’s local low-altitude economic development, held on Saturday.
Developed by EHang Holdings Limited, a Chinese drone manufacturer, the EH216-S is designed primarily for tourism and sightseeing purposes. The aircraft features a maximum speed of 200 km/h and a range of up to 300 kilometers, accommodating two passengers.
Low-altitude tourism is becoming increasingly popular and is viewed as a promising growth area in the cultural and tourism industry. Once programmed, the EH216-S can operate fully autonomously, requiring no passenger input during flights.
In September 2024, Lingshui issued several policy measures aimed at accelerating industrial transformation and promoting high-quality economic development. The county plans to establish low-altitude takeoff and landing sites at scenic spots, island road stations, and wharves, supporting sightseeing tours utilizing eVTOL aircraft and flying cars.
The low-altitude economy, including low-altitude tourism, is seen as having significant market potential and promising development opportunities.
According to Hainan's latest government report, the province intends to advance reforms in low-altitude airspace management and expand the use cases for low-altitude economic activities.
EHang received the world’s first production certificate for its EH216-S eVTOL aircraft in April 2024, enabling mass production. The company delivered a total of 216 EH216-S units in 2024, according to official data.
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