The Hyundai Flying Taxi Supernal S A2 was unveiled at CES 2024, marking Hyundai Motors as the third-largest car manufacturer in the Indian market. Hyundai is recognized globally for producing various excellent vehicles.
Recently, Hyundai Motors unveiled its new flying taxi at CES 2024, aiming for production by 2028 to address the anticipated increase in demand for flying taxis due to heavy traffic congestion on roads. Hyundai is actively working on this futuristic concept.
The Hyundai Flying Taxi Supernal S A2 is designed to be an advanced aerial vehicle capable of vertical takeoff and landing. This is not the first unveiling, as a previous model, the SA1, was introduced in 2020. The flying taxi can accommodate up to five passengers, including a pilot, and operates on electric power.
Jaiwon Shin, President of Hyundai, who has extensive experience collaborating with NASA, leads the Supernal project. Shin predicts a significant expansion of eVTOL (electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing) aircraft as taxi options in the future aviation industry. He emphasizes the need for large-scale production to meet the expected demand, considering that the current global commercial aircraft count is limited to just over 30,000 units.
Design and Features of Hyundai Flying Taxi Supernal S A2
The design of the Supernal S A2 is visually appealing and stands out compared to traditional helicopters and light aircraft. It operates on electric power, reaching speeds of 192 kilometers per hour and flying at altitudes of up to 15,000 feet.
Designed for short flights ranging from 40 to 65 kilometers, the Supernal S A2 features eight tilting rotors to maintain stability in the air. While currently battery-powered, there are plans to explore hydrogen engine technology in future generations.
The design is credited to Luc Donckerwolker, Chief Designer of the Hyundai Motor Group’s design division, known as Auto Meet Aero. Supernal S A2 is a cutting-edge innovation, taking the vehicle division to new heights.
Launch Details of Hyundai Flying Taxi Supernal S A2
Official information regarding the global launch of Supernal S A2 has not been disclosed by the company. However, it is anticipated that production will commence in 2025, with testing of pre-production vehicles scheduled for 2026 and 2027.
As for its launch in the Indian market, there is no information available at this time. It is expected that introducing it in India may take considerable time.
Feature/Specification | Details |
---|---|
Type | Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) Aircraft |
Seating Capacity | Up to 5 people, including the pilot |
Cruising Speed | 192 kph |
Altitude Capability | Up to 1,500 ft |
Power Source | Battery-powered (potential for hydrogen fuel cell) |
Noise Levels | 65dB during vertical take-off, 45dB when cruising |
Range | Designed for shorter journeys: 40-65 km |
Rotors | Eight tilting rotors |
Lead Designer | Luc Donckerwolke, Hyundai Group’s Design Chief |
Projected Production Start | 2028 |
Testing Timeline | Flight tests in 2025, pre-production testing in 2026-2027 |
Development Lead | Hyundai President Jaiwon Shin (formerly of NASA) |