Engineers on the Chinese mainland have unveiled a groundbreaking modular electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle that seamlessly transitions between road and air travel. This split-design innovation, demonstrated in recent trials, allows operators to detach flight modules from ground vehicles within minutes – a technological leap that could revolutionize urban transport networks by 2030.
How It Works
The system features three core components: a road-capable base vehicle, detachable flight pods, and centralized charging stations. During morning rush hours in prototype cities, flight modules have transported commuters aerially while their corresponding ground vehicles continue autonomous road operations, effectively doubling transport capacity.
Commercial Applications
Major logistics companies are currently testing the technology for last-mile delivery solutions. JD.com recently completed trial deliveries using airborne modules to bypass traffic congestion in Shenzhen, reducing delivery times by 42%. Passenger transport trials are scheduled to begin in Shanghai later this year.
Regulatory Progress
The Civil Aviation Administration of China has established new certification standards for modular aircraft systems, with full commercial deployment expected by 2028. Industry analysts project the technology could capture 15% of Asia's urban transport market within a decade.
