Shanghai-based developer Autoflight has revealed Matrix, an aerotaxi that can fit 10 business-class seats.
THE FIRST OF ITS KIND
Earlier this month, the Matrix completed its first public flight demonstration. The Matrix is the world’s first five-tonne electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft to do so. The acronym “eVTOL” means that the aircraft can take-off and land without the use of a runway.
With a wingspan of 20 metres and a height of 3.3 metres, the Matrix can take-off with a payload of 5,700 kilograms. It has a passenger capacity of ten people, suited for ten business-class seats or six VIP seats. The aircraft’s carrying capacity alone is a leap for eVTOLs, which usually have the capacity to carry four to six passengers.
“Matrix is not only a rising star in the aviation industry but also an ambitious industry disruptor. It will break the industry perception that eVTOL = short-haul, low-load, and will reshape the rules of eVTOL routes,” said AutoFlight CEO Tian Yu in a statement.
“Through economies of scale, it significantly reduces transportation costs per seat-kilometre and ton-kilometre, revolutionizing costs and embracing profitability.
“It covers all scenarios from urban commuting to intercity feeder routes, driving the expansion of the entire low-altitude ecosystem.”
TWO VARIANTS
According to AutoFlight, the Matrix will be available in two variants: the cargo version and the passenger version.
The passenger version is battery-powered and can travel up to 250 kilometres on a full charge. By contrast, the cargo version is equipped with a hybrid propulsion system that extends its range up to 1,500kilometres.
While the passenger version can carry up to 10 people at a time, the cargo version has a maximum payload weight of 1,500 kilograms. The aircraft’s doors are large enough to fit two AKE-standard air freight containers.
CHINA’S STANDARDS
The South China Morning Post reported that prior to the test flight, 10 of China’s government departments released basic standards to be established by 2027. These standards include five core areas; aircraft, infrastructure, air traffic management, safety supervision, and application scenarios.
By 2030, these standards will increase to 300.
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