EHang's EH216-S Pilotless eVTOL Completes Debut Flight in Downtown Shanghai, World-Class Central City is Set to Embrace Air Taxi Transportation

Core Viewpoint - EHang Holdings Limited has successfully completed the inaugural demo flight of its pilotless passenger-carrying aerial vehicle EH216-S in downtown Shanghai, marking a significant step towards the realization of urban air mobility in major cities [1][2][8] Company Developments - The EH216-S is now in regular trial operation for eVTOL sightseeing routes along the Huangpu River, with plans for commercial operations in Shanghai [1][2] - EHang has partnered with Shanghai Hynfar Aviation Co., Ltd. to develop various low-altitude economy eVTOL operational scenarios, including passenger transportation and urban sightseeing [3][8] - The company aims to leverage its first-mover advantage as the world's first certified eVTOL company to promote market-oriented commercial operations in Shanghai and the Yangtze River Delta region [8][9] Industry Context - Longhua Airport in Shanghai is positioned as a key base for the development of the low-altitude economy, facilitating various activities such as aerial mobility and tourism [2][3] - The Action Plan for High-Quality Development of Shanghai's Low-Altitude Economy Industry (2024–2027) aims to establish Shanghai as a leading hub for innovation and operational services in this sector, with an expected industry scale exceeding RMB50 billion by 2027 [4][7] - The plan includes the goal of achieving over 100 low-altitude flight service applications in commercial scenarios by 2027, providing significant growth opportunities for the low-altitude economy [7]