Hyundai launches the eVTOL in Spain, an air taxi with up to six seats

In a setting like no other, at CES 2024, Supernal LLC, the advanced air mobility (AAM) company affiliated with Hyundai Motor Group, left attendees amazed by unveiling its latest innovation: the electric vertical take-off and landing vehicle (eVTOL) concept called S-A2.

As part of the “Innvierte Economía Sostenible” initiative, Crisalion has been selected by Spain’s Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities, through the CDTI, to receive a significant investment of 5.4 million euros. This financial backing underscores the commitment to research and development of innovative and sustainable solutions in the mobility sector.

This ingenious vehicle shows us another step in Supernal’s strategy to bring to market an air transport vehicle capable of carrying five passengers and a pilot, with the greatest practicality and safety possible. The S-A2 is a prototype that will become a reality; we already saw the initial S-A1 concept presented at CES 2020, and now they present its evolution, which will undoubtedly be a tremendous advance for aerospace engineering, which this time counts on the automotive excellence of Hyundai Motor Group, and for mobility, enabling the transport of people and goods in the shortest time possible.

Up to 190 km/h with barely any noise

The S-A2 is presented as an aircraft with a V-tail, designed to reach a cruising speed of 190 km/h at an altitude of 450 meters, meeting the typical needs of urban operations over initial distances of 40 to 60 km. Its distributed electric propulsion architecture and eight fully tilting rotors mark a milestone in aerospace engineering.

This vehicle, which operates almost silently during take-off and vertical landing (65 dB) phases and in horizontal cruise (45 dB), has been designed with safety as a priority thanks to its robust fuselage structure that incorporates redundant components in critical systems. The S-A2 complies with all commercial aviation safety standards.

The fully tilting rotor configuration allows unique efficiency in both vertical and horizontal flight phases. Series production will take place leveraging Hyundai’s series production capacity, ensuring superior quality and profitability.

Designed to be efficient and comfortable

Supernal’s engineering team worked closely with the automotive designers of Hyundai Motor Group to create a unique aesthetic for the S-A2. The combination of design and functionality seeks to captivate aviation operators and offer an exceptional experience to AAM passengers.

Different colors and materials distinguish the passenger and pilot sections of the vehicle. The seats incorporate aviation components that not only absorb energy but also contribute to a clean, minimalist design. The lighting transitions throughout the flight phases not only provide visual cues but also enhance the perception of space in the cabin.

Updates still to come

As Supernal moves toward certification, series production and the expansion of use cases, the company is focusing on interior modularity and battery upgradability. The ability to replace the battery module as technology advances reinforces Supernal’s commitment to continuous innovation.