EHang Launches Cutting-Edge Automated Takeoff-Landing Facility for eVTOLs in China

• Chinmay
• January 23, 2025
• Automotive, News
• automated vertiport, China, EHang, eVTOL, global UAM, low-altitude economy, passenger aerial vehicles, smart infrastructure, urban air mobility, urban air taxis
• 0 Comments

EHang Holdings, the Chinese leader in pilotless electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles, has launched a state-of-the-art automated takeoff and landing site in Shenzhen’s Luohu Sports and Leisure Park, Guangzhou, China. This facility is designed to support the commercial operations of the EHang EH216-S, a passenger-carrying electric aerial vehicle (EAV).

A New Era of Urban Air Mobility

EHang’s new Urban Air Mobility (UAM) hub features an innovative vertical lift vertiport, marking a milestone in sustainable infrastructure for urban air travel. The facility’s design includes a first-floor boarding area and hangar and a second-floor takeoff and landing pad equipped for rapid charging of eVTOLs. During its launch ceremony, the EH216-S demonstrated the system’s capabilities by being lifted to the second floor before taking off and landing back at the facility.

Zhao Wang, EHang’s Chief Operating Officer, highlighted the significance of this development:
“The Luohu UAM Center represents an innovative approach to infrastructure development for the low-altitude economy. It will serve as a cornerstone of EHang’s operations in Shenzhen and the Greater Bay Area.” EHang plans to leverage this facility as a model for efficient eVTOL operations nationwide and globally, further integrating low-altitude and ground economies.

Scaling Urban Air Mobility Across China

Shenzhen’s Luohu District already boasts 15 vertiports for passenger-carrying EAVs, signaling the region’s commitment to pioneering urban air mobility. EHang has also expanded its test operations in Shanghai, flying the EH216-S over the Huangpu River as part of its sightseeing routes.

Shanghai’s Longhua Airport, home to the East China General Aviation Service Center, plays a central role in developing the Yangtze River Delta region’s low-altitude economy. EHang’s commercial operations are expected to expand significantly in this region, with a goal of introducing 100 low-altitude flight service applications by 2027, as outlined in the Action Plan for High-Quality Development of Shanghai Low-Altitude Economy Industry (2024–2027).

International Expansion and Strategic Collaborations

EHang is also making strides internationally, with projects in Thailand, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, and Europe:

• Thailand: EHang conducted its first passenger flights at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok and plans to expand operations to Phuket and Koh Samui.
• Saudi Arabia: The EH216-S has flown autonomously in Mecca with support from Saudi authorities, marking a significant milestone in the Middle East.
• Europe: Collaborations with Vertiports Network and partnerships with Seville and Zaragoza in Spain are shaping a modular UAM ecosystem.

Additionally, EHang has raised $100 million in funding, including a $22 million investment from Zhuhai Enpower Electric and a UAE-based strategic investor, to enhance its fleet of electric aerial vehicles.

Future Innovations and Use Cases

EHang continues to push the boundaries of eVTOL technology by introducing specialized EAV models:

• EH216-F for firefighting: Equipped with rockets to break windows in high-rise fires and a nozzle to deliver fire retardant.
• EH216-L for logistics: Optimized for cargo delivery.
• VT-30 long-range eVTOL: Designed for extended flights.

The company is also developing advanced electric motors in collaboration with Zhuhai Enpower Electric to enhance the performance and efficiency of its fleet.

A Global Vision for Urban Air Mobility

EHang’s operations have already surpassed 50,000 flights across 17 countries, showcasing its leadership in autonomous aerial vehicles. With facilities like the Luohu UAM Center, EHang is setting the stage for a sustainable, efficient, and globally integrated urban air mobility network.