Chinese Automakers Making Bold Moves in the Flying Car Industry
Two prominent Chinese automakers, JAC Motors and Chery Automobile, have recently made significant strides in the field of flying cars, showcasing their commitment to innovation and cutting-edge technology.
JAC Motors, in collaboration with EHang Holdings and Hefei Guoxian Holdings Co., Ltd., has signed a strategic framework agreement to establish a joint venture in Hefei. This partnership aims to develop an advanced manufacturing facility for electric-driven, intelligent, and pilotless eVTOL aircraft. The joint venture will focus on research, development, production, and sales of next-generation aircraft, driving technological innovation and industrial-scale expansion.
On the other hand, Chery Automobile has unveiled a modular flying car concept, developed in partnership with Tsinghua University’s Emerging Transportation Solutions laboratory. This innovative design features a tri-body docking mechanism, allowing for seamless transitions between air and land modes. The vehicle consists of three main components: a flight module, a cabin module, and a driving module, offering flexibility and versatility in usage.
With advancements in electrification and intelligent technologies, the automotive industry is expanding its horizons beyond traditional boundaries. The race to dominate the low-altitude economy has intensified, with leading automakers investing heavily in research and development.
Key Players in the Flying Car Industry
Several automakers have outlined their mass production timelines for flying cars, with XPENG AEROHT and Geely Holding leading the charge. XPENG AEROHT’s “Land Aircraft Carrier” is set to go into mass production in 2026, while Geely Holding is exploring investments in German flying taxi company Volocopter GmbH.
In December 2024, GAC Group introduced its new flying car brand, GOVY, showcasing the GOVY AirJet as its first composite-wing flying car. Changan Automobile has also made significant strides in the low-altitude sector, signing a cooperation agreement with EHang to invest over 20 billion yuan in the next five years.
Global giants like Toyota and Volkswagen are also making strategic moves in the flying car industry, with Toyota investing in Joby Aviation and Volkswagen developing its own eVTOL passenger-carrying aircraft. The competition is fierce, with companies vying for a stake in the lucrative low-altitude economy.
Policies Driving Industry Expansion
China has incorporated the low-altitude economy into its national strategic planning, with policies evolving to support the sector’s growth. The government has introduced guidelines for the development of green aviation manufacturing and aims to commercialize next-generation general aviation equipment by 2025.
Regional governments have also responded to the national agenda, laying out ambitious plans for the development of low-altitude infrastructure. Provinces like Guangdong have set goals for the construction of general aviation airports and takeoff and landing platforms, creating a conducive environment for flying car deployment.
Challenges to Commercial Operation
While the low-altitude economy holds tremendous potential, there are challenges that must be addressed for successful commercial operation. Range limitations, cost constraints, and infrastructure development are key hurdles that the industry must overcome.
Technical advancements in hybrid-electric and hydrogen-powered propulsion solutions show promise in extending flight ranges and reducing costs. The development of VTOL infrastructure, including vertiports, mid-sized VTOL hubs, and large-scale VTOL airports, is essential for the seamless integration of flying cars into urban mobility systems.
While the road to commercial viability may be long, the future of flying cars is promising. Automakers and industry players are investing heavily in research and development to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the low-altitude economy. With the right combination of technology, infrastructure, and regulatory support, flying cars may soon become a mainstream reality.
