Xpeng’s AeroHT X2 flying car takes to the skies at Beijing airport for maiden flight Tech: Tech Times

Xpeng’s AeroHT X2 flying car completed its first test flight at Beijing’s Daxing International Airport, marking a key moment for the Chinese electric vehicle maker and its ambitious plans for urban air mobility.

Electric vehicle manufacturer Xpeng completes the maiden flight of its AeroHT X2 flying car in Beijing

AeroHT X2, developed by a subsidiary of Xpeng, debuted at the China Langfang International Economic and Trade Fair, according to the South China Morning Post.

The flight was a milestone as AeroHT moves closer to commercializing its flying car amid growing political support for China’s growing low-altitude economy.

AeroHT, led by Xpeng co-founder and CEO He Xiaopeng, has been developing flying cars since 2013. The company has established research centers and test bases in Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Shanghai, reflecting its strong commitment to pioneering this futuristic technology.

The first public flight of the X2 took place in October 2022 in Dubai, showcasing its potential on the international stage.

A closer look

The X2’s unique design, which allows seamless switching between ground and air modes, positions it as a versatile vehicle for the future.

The air module, an all-electric piloted aircraft, enables vertical take-off for low-altitude flights, while the ground module, seating 4-5 passengers, enables ground transportation using an extended-range electric propulsion system and a three-axle and six-wheel configuration for increased mobility.

The X2’s versatility goes beyond personal use. Its potential applications include public services such as rescue, highlighting its role in both the private and public sectors. The 270° panoramic cockpit provides pilots with a wide field of view, enhancing the flight experience.

Read also: China introduces photonic chip capable of processing one hundred billion pixels in just 6 nanoseconds

China’s low-altitude vehicles are gaining momentum

SCMP tells us that China’s low-altitude economy, which includes companies operating unmanned drones and manned aircraft at altitudes below 3,000 meters, is gaining momentum from 2021. This growth is driven by central government policies and regulations aimed at supporting this nascent sector .

According to the China Information Industry Development Center, the low-altitude vehicle market is projected to exceed 1 trillion yuan ($138 billion) by 2026, up significantly from 506 billion yuan in 2023.

Beijing authorities have been proactive in this area by issuing a plan for the low-altitude sector in March. The plan includes the creation of three main air routes by 2027, aimed at supporting different scenarios such as rescue, logistics and distribution, cultural tourism and daily commuting.

This is in line with broader national strategies, as governments in 26 provinces have developed plans this year to support the low-mountain economy.

Despite the promising prospects, challenges remain. Underdeveloped infrastructure and lack of industry-wide standards are obstacles that must be removed before large-scale commercial implementation can be achieved.

Deliveries of Xpeng flying cars will begin in 2025

Xpeng has ambitious plans for the AeroHT X2, aiming to start accepting orders in the fourth quarter of this year, with deliveries expected to begin in late 2025.

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