In 2026, China's first eVTOL airworthiness certifications were issued to 4 companies including XPENG Aeroht. Geely's Aeroht unveiled the AE200 prototype, as low-altitude economy moves from POC to commercial production.
Airworthiness Certification: "Birth Certificate"
CAAC issued first eVTOL certifications to XPENG Aeroht and 3 others. This marks the shift from "proof of concept" to "commercial operation."
Airworthiness certification is the "birth certificate" for commercial aircraft operations, involving hundreds of rigorous tests covering structural strength, power systems, flight control, and emergency safety. The first certifications prove Chinese companies have reached international advanced levels in eVTOL core technologies.
Aeroht AE200 Debut
Geely's Aeroht unveiled the AE200, a 5-seat eVTOL with composite wing design, 200km range, and 200km/h cruise speed, meeting inter-city commute needs.
Geely's layout reflects its strategic vision extending from ground to aerial transportation. By integrating auto industry battery, motor, and electric control technologies, Geely has unique supply chain synergies in the eVTOL sector.
Commercial Prospects
eVTOL commercialization will first deploy in:
- Urban air taxis: Alleviating ground traffic congestion
- Inter-city short commute: Fast direct transport within 200km
- Emergency rescue: Medical aid and firefighting
- Logistics delivery: Express delivery to remote areas
Industry forecasts predict China's low-altitude economy will reach trillion-level scale by 2030, with eVTOL as the core carrier.
Impact on Auto Industry
eVTOL and smart vehicles share core technologies (battery, motor, electric control, intelligent driving). Their integrated development will spawn new industrial ecosystems. For vast territories like Central Asia and Russia, eVTOL has unique value in remote area transportation and resource exploration.
