It looks like a big toy, right? Yet it could be the ultimate solution for urban mobility. Sustainably. It’s called EHang 216 and was shown at IIMS Hybrid 2022, at the JIExpo in Kemayoran, Jakarta.
It’s a flying taxi. Autonomous: that is, without a pilot. Not the first, you say? True. But it has some new features compared to previous prototypes: it looks like a drone, because it has sixteen carbon propellers and an unusual shape. However, it is able to access areas that are difficult to reach by land. Maybe park in Piazza Navona, in Rome. Let’s joke.
But it could. Because it is 1.77 meters high and 5.61 meters wide, and can carry up to 220 kg. According to the manufacturer, it can fly between 35 and 65 km. So 16-45 minutes, with two adults. The speed? 130 km per hour.
Other positive things? Lower repair and maintenance costs. But above all, this vehicle is 100% electric, therefore ecological.
There are therefore three main concepts: maximum level of safety, unmanned control and AI control.
Do not you trust? Yet be aware that the EHang 216 will be monitored via the command center via intelligent control using a number of intuitive systems. The system has five main functions: air travel, cluster management, monitoring, control and early warning. And it has no cockpit controls that give it a sophisticated feel.
Let it be clear that only certified pilots, and company licenses, are allowed to fly it.
In Asia they believe in it and want to bet on it. And Europe?