The author’s involvement in electric aircraft began unexpectedly in February 2017 when he was asked to comment on the eHang 184, a Chinese passenger drone. His reluctance to volunteer for an early flight on the drone became a well-known quote that may appear in his obituary. This initial encounter with Chinese flying cars, or electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, proved to be indicative of the rapid developments in the field. China has emerged as a leader in eVTOL technology, with the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) awarding production certificates to companies like EHang and AutoFlight, allowing for commercial rollouts.
In April, CAAC awarded a production certificate to EHang’s EH216-S, marking the first time an eVTOL received such approval anywhere in the world. This milestone has opened the door for a commercial rollout of eVTOL aircraft in China. Other Chinese companies, such as AutoFlight, have also made significant progress, with their CarryAll eVTOL obtaining a type certificate from CAAC in March. China currently accounts for around 50% of the world’s eVTOL models, with companies like XPeng and Vertaxi also making waves in the industry. The Chinese government has pledged to create economic “demonstration zones” to further support the development of eVTOL technology.
Despite China’s current lead in the eVTOL race, there are challenges that all competitors in the field must address. The primary challenge is the limitations of battery technology, which initially unlocked the eVTOL era but is now its greatest constraint. Batteries are still unable to store and deliver energy at the same level as gasoline, restricting the industry to premium services in niche applications. Until there is a breakthrough in battery technology, the full potential of eVTOL aircraft will be limited.
The author questions whether China’s lead in the eVTOL race will be sustained and explores the reasons behind the country’s success in this emerging technology. China’s rapid progress in eVTOL development can be attributed to a combination of government support, technological innovation, and a competitive market environment. However, sustaining this lead will depend on overcoming challenges related to battery technology and regulatory approvals. The future of eVTOL aircraft in China and globally will be shaped by advancements in battery technology, regulatory frameworks, and market demand for electric air transportation.
