Hyundai announces 'Flying Car' prototype at CES 2024 and plans to start production in 2028
Hyundai's announcement of the flying car prototype at CES 2024 reflects not only the search for innovation in the automotive industry, but also the company's vision to transform the way we move around cities.
The S-A2 was created by Supernal, from Hyundai - Photo Reproduction/Hyundai
Hyundai, a renowned automotive manufacturer,through its air mobility division Supernal Surprised the world by announce a 'Flying Car' prototype,chamado S-A2, during the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), held in Las Vegas, USA.This futuristic vision of mobility represents an ambitious step into the future, and the company is already planning large-scale production for 2028.
Innovation beyond terrestrial limits
The presentation at CES 2024 brought a glimpse into the future of urban mobility, with the Hyundai prototype showing features that defy conventional expectations. The flying vehicle combines Hyundai's advanced automotive technology with vertical propulsion, allowing vertical takeoffs and landings. In addition to the pilot, the S-A2 was designed to accommodate up to four passengers, meeting the essential requirements to operate as an urban air taxi, which is the companies' main focus.
This model is fully electric and has vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) capability, an acronym in English that denotes electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicle. It represents an evolution in relation to the S-A1, presented for the first time by the brand in 2020. The vehicle is capable of reaching a maximum speed of 190 km/h, reaching an altitude of approximately 460 meters (1,500 feet). Its battery has enough capacity to cover distances of up to 60 km.
The companies ensure that the aircraft will have a reduced level of noise pollution, emitting 65 decibels (dB) during the vertical takeoff and landing phases, and 45 dB during the horizontal cruise. In comparison, an average helicopter generates between 96 dB and 107 dB. Jaiwon Shin, president of Hyundai and CEO of Supernal, expressed the expectation of a significant expansion of eVTOLs as alternatives to taxis and app-based cars. The executive stated that the market has the potential to involve "hundreds of thousands" of aircraft.
Transforming mobility
Hyundai is aligning its vision to transform mobility in congested urban environments and address challenges associated with land traffic. By adopting an innovative approach, the company seeks to create an integrated solution for the transport of the future, making journeys faster and more efficient. Hyundai's flying car is designed to operate in both ground and air modes, offering a smooth transition between the two environments. With the ability to fly at moderate altitudes, the vehicle promises to shorten distances in urban areas, providing a revolutionary alternative for daily travel.
Challenges and Perspectives for the Future
Despite enthusiastic expectations, Hyundai recognizes the significant challenges surrounding successful implementation from this flying car vision. Government regulations, appropriate infrastructure and public acceptance are just some of the obstacles the company will have to face. However, Hyundai is optimistic about the future and has already outlined a strategic plan for mass production of the flying car by 2028. The company is committed to working closely with regulatory authorities, aviation and urban experts to overcome challenges and create a viable ecosystem for the new form of transport.
