At the forefront of revolutionary transportation, Hyundai Motor Group is transcending boundaries with its latest venture into advanced air mobility (AAM). The Korean automotive giant, through its US-based advanced air mobility company Supernal, is set to redefine urban mobility. The much-anticipated reveal of its electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicle (eVTOL) at CES 2024 marks a significant milestone in this journey, underscoring Hyundai’s commitment to innovation and futuristic transportation solutions.
Hyundai’s Vision of Flying Mobility
For decades, flying cars have captivated our imagination, often relegated to the realms of science fiction. Today, Hyundai is turning these dreams into reality. Shin Jai-won, CEO of Supernal, asserts, “Integrating AAM into intermodal transportation will require significant collaboration… This is why we believe in developing the entire ecosystem before going to market.” This statement encapsulates Hyundai’s holistic approach to AAM, emphasizing not just the technology but also the need for infrastructural and regulatory frameworks to support this new mode of transport.
The eVTOL Showcase at CES 2024
At CES 2024, held at the Las Vegas Convention Center from January 9 to 12, Hyundai’s eVTOL will be a central attraction. This life-size concept model represents a leap in electric vehicle technology, capable of vertical takeoffs and landings, making it ideal for urban environments. The eVTOL, designed for one pilot and up to four passengers, is expected to reach speeds of up to 190 kilometers per hour.
Building the Future of Urban Air Mobility
Supernal is not only showcasing its eVTOL but also constructing a vertiport exhibition outside the convention venue. This offers visitors a firsthand experience of what urban air mobility could look like. A vertiport, akin to a heliport, is designed specifically for eVTOLs, highlighting Hyundai’s dedication to creating a comprehensive AAM ecosystem.
The Roadmap to Commercialization
Hyundai’s commitment to AAM is further evidenced by its plans to build a plant for eVTOL production in the US, with a goal to commercialize the vehicle by 2028. The challenges are significant, especially in developing batteries that account for a considerable portion of the eVTOL’s weight. However, with an investment of $920 million in Supernal and the rapid expansion of its workforce, Hyundai is clearly gearing up to meet these challenges head-on.
Industry Impact and Future Prospects
The global urban air mobility (UAM) market is projected to exceed $500 billion by 2030. Hyundai aims to capture a substantial share of this market, with plans to generate 30 percent of its revenue from its AAM business by 2030. Kim Pil-su, a car engineering professor at Daelim University, notes, “The road map has to be grand.” The ambitious nature of Hyundai’s vision indicates not only a commitment to innovation but also an understanding of the need for high safety standards and regulatory compliance in this new frontier of transportation.
Conclusion
Hyundai Motor Group’s foray into advanced air mobility with Supernal’s eVTOL is more than just a technological marvel; it’s a vision of the future of urban transportation. As we stand on the cusp of this new era, Hyundai’s initiative invites us to imagine a world where the sky is no longer a limit but a new path to explore. We encourage our readers to share their thoughts and perspectives on this groundbreaking development in the comments below. How do you envision the future of urban air mobility shaping our cities and daily commutes?
