The South Korean automaker Hyundai Motor Group said on Wednesday that its air taxi division, Supernal, intends to construct a production plant in the US to produce flying electric taxis for commuters.
According to Supernal Chief Executive Officer Shin Jaiwon in an interview with Bloomberg, a prototype of the electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) craft would be shown at the international tech expo Consumer Electronics Expo (CES) in January in Las Vegas.
Global producers of electric air taxis have positioned themselves as environmentally friendly ways to reduce traffic in urban areas, drawing funding from major airlines like Delta Air Lines Inc. even though they are still a long way from going into business.
According to Shin, a test flight of the eVTOL taxi is scheduled for December 2024. It can travel at speeds of up to 120 mph (193 kph) and accommodates four passengers in addition to the pilot.
According to regulatory documents, since Supernal’s founding in 2021, Hyundai Motor, Kia Corp, and Hyundai Mobis have invested 1.2 trillion won ($915.70 million) in the Washington-based company.
Hyundai Motor Group and Korean Air Lines inked a collaboration agreement last month to expedite the development of electric vehicle technology of flight (eVTOL) and the air mobility ecosystem in South Korea.
Hyundai Motor Company was founded in 1967 and has since expanded to become a leading worldwide automotive company recognized for its quality, innovation, and increasing market share. When Hyundai’s Pony was introduced in 1975, it was the first South Korean automaker to sell cars outside.
Hyundai has maintained its innovative technology and fashionable looks throughout the years, selling more than 4.5 million vehicles a year and reaching a market share of 4.3% in 2020. The company’s capacity to adjust to shifting market circumstances, its investment in electric and hybrid cars, and its emphasis on customer happiness and sustainability are all credited with its success.
College students, families, and retirees who want dependable, reasonably priced vehicles with contemporary styling are among Hyundai’s target customers. In Europe and Asia, where fuel economy and accessibility are important considerations, the brand excels in urban and suburban settings.
Consumers are drawn to technological innovation, eco-friendly products with minimal emissions, and fuel economy. Families and senior drivers who value cutting-edge amenities are drawn to vehicles where safety is also a top focus.
