In a booming market, the famous Chinese firm CATL, a world leader in batteries for electric vehicles, has just announced a colossal investment in AutoFlight, a pioneer in the development of vertical take-off and landing vehicles (eVTOL). This bold move marks a decisive step in the evolution of China's low-altitude economy, promising a revolution in modern urban transport.
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The new pact for the future of urban aviation
AutoFlight’s recent announcement of this major investment, the exact amount of which was not disclosed, makes CATL a strategic investor in the Shanghai-based company. The partnership comes at a time when China is rapidly developing its low-altitude economy, which includes industries related to eVTOL aircraft, both manned and unmanned, operating at altitudes below 1,000 meters.
A promising collaboration
As part of the agreement, the two companies have agreed to establish a long-term partnership dedicated to the joint research and development of batteries for eVTOL vehicles. This collaboration aims to leverage the resources and technical expertise of both companies to achieve significant technological breakthroughs in the field of batteries, allowing for longer flight ranges and increased charging capacities while significantly improving safety and stability.
Accelerate development and certification
With CATL's support, AutoFlight will be able to accelerate its research and development of projects, as well as facilitate the process of obtaining the necessary airworthiness certification in China for its passenger aircraft, the Prosperity. The application for certification was filed in April. AutoFlight's cargo aircraft has already received type certification from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC).
A pioneering player in a competitive market
Founded in 2017, AutoFlight is positioned as one of the first Chinese companies to venture into the manufacturing of eVTOL vehicles. It is competing with giants such as Guangzhou-based EHang, which has been active in the production of passenger drones since 2014. AutoFlight also has an R&D facility in Munich, Germany.
Forecasts for a futuristic market
Xie Jie, the company's senior vice president, told local media earlier this year that he expects commercialization of passenger-carrying eVTOL vehicles to begin in 2026.
Competitors already well advanced
EHang, for its part, has obtained the type, production and standard airworthiness certificates for its EH216-S unmanned aircraft, reaching an important regulatory milestone for the commercialization of the vehicle. EHang is currently working towards obtaining the Air Operator Certificate, the final step before launching commercial services in China.
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This article explores CATL and AutoFlight’s strategic partnership in the eVTOL space, detailing the advancements and challenges associated with this new era of urban mobility. CATL’s investment could catalyze the development of innovative transportation solutions, paving the way for a revolution in urban travel.
Source: Scmp