Chinese vehicle manufacturer EHang has achieved a significant milestone in the development of self-controlled flying taxis.

Recently, EHang announced that its EH216-S electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle has received the world’s first production certificate for such vehicles from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). This breakthrough marks a crucial advancement towards the realization of commercially viable eVTOLs.

While several vehicle manufacturers have created eVTOL prototypes for testing, EHang’s achievement signals a pivotal step forward in bringing these vehicles to market. Huazhi Hu, CEO of EHang, expressed the company’s vision to provide safe and reliable pilotless eVTOL aircraft globally, offering autonomous and environmentally friendly air mobility services.

The EH216-S can accommodate two passengers and features a self-driving system, eliminating the need for a pilot. EHang has conducted numerous tests, including both crewed and uncrewed flights, to ensure the vehicle’s safety and performance.

This development builds upon EHang’s previous ventures, including the debut of the EHang 184 “passenger drone” in 2016. The company aims to deploy the EH216-S for various purposes, such as air taxi services, aerial tourism, airport shuttles, and cross-island transportation, demonstrating its potential for diverse applications in the transportation sector.