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Hyundai's Supernal flying taxi prototype might feature lightweight aluminium

Hyundai's Supernal flying taxi prototype might feature lightweight aluminium

Hyundai's air mobility division, Supernal, is set to launch its S-A2 electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in 2028, anticipating a surge in demand for electric aircraft in urban taxi services. The S-A2, presented at CES 2024, boasts a seating capacity for five and is powered by electricity. Designed by Hyundai group's Luc Donckerwolke, it embodies an "auto meets aero" aesthetic.
President of Hyundai, Jaiwon Shin, a NASA veteran, leads the Supernal project, foreseeing a significant expansion of eVTOL aircraft in the future, potentially numbering in the "hundreds of thousands." Shin emphasises Hyundai's advantage in mass production, acquired from the automotive sector, as a crucial asset in meeting this anticipated demand.
The use of aluminium alloy components in the S-A2 not only enhances its performance and efficiency but also aligns with the broader trend in the aviation industry toward lightweight materials for improved sustainability and fuel efficiency. Hyundai's integration of mass production capabilities from the automotive sector signifies a pragmatic approach to address the anticipated surge in demand for eVTOL aircraft. This convergence of expertise showcases Hyundai's commitment to shaping the future of urban air mobility.