Xpeng Aeroht, a unit of Xpeng (NYSE: XPEV) specializing in flying cars, recently announced that its mass-production factory for flying cars is now 70 percent complete and is on track for completion in the fourth quarter. The company also revealed that it has submitted its Type Certificate application for its flying car, which is currently under review by the authorities.
The flying car, known as the “Land Aircraft Carrier,” is a modular vehicle consisting of a flying body (X3-F) and a parent vehicle that can recharge the body. Xpeng Aeroht’s Production Certificate application for the flying body was accepted by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), marking the beginning of the review process for the company’s mass-production system for flying car products.
The Type Certificate application for the flying body was accepted by the CAAC in March 2024, and the review process has now entered the compliance confirmation phase. Xpeng Aeroht is actively cooperating with the validation process in order to achieve its goal of starting mass production and delivery in 2026.
Obtaining a Production Certificate is a significant milestone for the company, as it demonstrates that the producer has established a production system and quality system for aeronautical products that meet safety standards. Xpeng Aeroht’s flying car manufacturing base has made significant progress, with the main building for the final assembly shop, paint shop, joining shop, and compounding shop now complete.
After obtaining the Type Certificate and Production Certificate, Xpeng Aeroht will need to secure the Airworthiness Certificate and Air Operator Certificate before commencing fee-based commercial operations. This process is similar to that of Ehang, another player in the industry.
In related news, Xpeng is reportedly considering an IPO for its flying car unit in either Hong Kong or the US. According to Bloomberg, the company has invited banks to pitch for a role in the potential IPO, indicating a further expansion of its flying car business.
Overall, Xpeng Aeroht’s progress in the development and certification of its flying car technology marks an important step towards the commercialization of this innovative transportation solution. With the completion of its mass-production factory and ongoing regulatory approvals, the company is well-positioned to lead the emerging market for flying cars in the near future.
