Supernal launches electric flying taxi concept at CES 2024

S-A2 is a V-tail aircraft designed to cruise 120 miles-per-hour at a 1,500-foot altitude to meet typical city operation needs of 25- to 40-mile trips, initially. It features a distributed electric propulsion architecture and has eight all-tilting rotors. At entry into service, Supernal claims its vehicle will operate “as quietly as a dishwasher” at 65 dB in vertical take-off and landing phases and 45 dB while cruising horizontally.

The all-tilting rotor configuration will power the vehicle through both the vertical lift and horizontal-cruise phases of flight.

“S-A2 is designed to take full advantage of emerging electric powertrain advancements that will define the next generation of aviation,” said Ben Diachun, chief technology officer, Supernal. “From here, we will develop this concept into a revolutionary commercial product.”

As Supernal continues to optimise its vehicle for certification, mass production and expanded use cases, the company is also focused on interior modularity and battery upgradability. This includes the ability to replace the battery module as technology advances.

“S-A2 is a true representation of ‘auto meets aero.’ Drawing on the competence of Supernal’s top aerospace engineers and Hyundai Motor Group’s world-renowned automotive designers to create human-centric design that maximises passenger experience and safety,” said Luc Donckerwolke, president, chief design officer and chief creative officer, Hyundai Motor Group.

S-A2 is on display within the Supernal Vertiport exhibition at CES 2024. The future transportation hub brings together Supernal’s holistic vision for AAM, placing S-A2 in an operational setting. Attendees have the opportunity to see the vehicle product concept, take a simulated flight above the city of Los Angeles, learn about potential flight networks and the technology to support them, as well as understand how vertiports and other transportation modes will create quicker and easier metropolitan journeys.