Hyundai revealed that its flying taxi business, Supernal, will soon launch its electric aircraft into the skies as early as 2028.
The South Korean automaker announced at the CES 2024 plans for the S-A2 electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft to shuttle passengers and be used commercially.
Parts of its visions for Supernal include the recently announced partnership with Uber Elevate to mass produce the eVTOL for an aerial ride-sharing venture.
Uber Elevate started test demos in 2020 and began offering commercial rides last year. Joby Aviation acquired Elevate from Uber in December 2020.
Hyundai first revealed its intentions for a flying taxi at the same convention almost four years ago with the S-A1 concept plan.
Also Read: Hyundai is Building Supernal in the US to Make Flying Electric Taxis Possible
Hyundai S2 Specs: An Affordable, Superfast eVTOL
Supernal's final product concept took the stage out of all the eVTOL products endorsed as a fast way to move through the urban jungle.
The S-A2 is built upon S-AI's 120 mph cruising speed at 1,500 feet altitude. The aircraft features eight tilting rotors for maximum maneuverability for takeoff, landing, and horizontal flight.
What surprises the most is that the S-A2 will only emit 65 dB on vertical takeoff and 45 dB for horizontal navigation. That is roughly equivalent to the normal conversation sound level.
Even the design of the aircraft is modernized towards "biomimicry" to provide the passenger and operator the maximum view of their surroundings with its underside windows and larger visibility panes.
US, Europe Edges Towards More Commercialized eVTOLs
The S-A2 will primarily be available for commercial use in the US and several parts of Europe as the two regions push for more electric vehicles to curb carbon footprints.
Self-flying electric vehicles have become more common in Europe as the European Union approves permission to operate for several flying taxi businesses, including Joby.
Paris is even planning to launch a squad of flying taxis when it hosts the 2024 Olympics and Paralympic Games this coming summer.
As for Hyundai, it is currently finalizing approval to operate its business in the US as regulators await the final prototype for the S-A2 model.
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