Hyundai Unveils S-A2 Flying Taxi Concept at CES 2024

Hyundai’s S-A2, an Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) Vehicle, Aims to Revolutionize Everyday Passenger Air Travel

South Korean automaker Hyundai has revealed its latest concept, the S-A2 electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle, at the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES). The S-A2, part of Hyundai’s vision concept, represents the brand’s foray into the emerging field of urban air mobility.

Design and Engineering:

The S-A2 is developed by Hyundai Motor Group’s Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) division, Supernal.
Hyundai’s award-winning designers have applied their expertise to create a stylish and aerodynamic eVTOL vehicle.
The vehicle features an all-electric architecture with eight tilting motors for a quiet operation during take-off, landing, and cruising.
The eVTOL is designed to cater to air travel needs within a range of 25 to 40 miles, with a cruising speed of 120 mph at a 1,500-foot altitude.

Quiet Operation:

The S-A2’s noise level measures 65 dB during vertical take-off and landing stages and 45 dB while cruising horizontally, providing a quiet and unintrusive experience.

Interior Design:

The cabin accommodates a pilot and four passengers.
Different color palettes and materials, including aviation-grade and energy-absorbing materials, contribute to a minimalist and comfortable interior.
The lighting system enhances the sense of a larger cabin.

Market Entry and Certification:

Hyundai’s goal is to “commercialize safe, efficient, and affordable everyday passenger air travel.”
The eVTOL concept is part of Hyundai’s commitment to entering the market with a viable product at the right time.
The final product is expected to undergo certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Future Plans:

Hyundai plans to continue developing the eVTOL, with a test flight scheduled for December 2024.
A manufacturing plant in the U.S. is under consideration, and Supernal could leverage Hyundai’s mass production capabilities.
Jaiwon Shin, President of Hyundai Motor Group and CEO of Supernal, stated, “The unveiling of S-A2 demonstrates our unwavering commitment to deliver on that mission with a safe, efficient vehicle design that provides a clear path to market entry.”

The S-A2 concept showcases Hyundai’s vision for the future of urban air mobility, addressing the growing interest and development in the eVTOL sector.