Hyundai’s Supernal S-A2 set to be showcased at 2024 Farnborough International Airshow

Hyundai Motor Group's air taxi division, Supernal, is taking centre stage at the 2024 Farnborough International Airshow. The company plans to showcase its S-A2, a full-scale electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle concept, at its dedicated chalet.

This follows the unveiling of the S-A2 at CES 2024, marking a significant step forward in Supernal's mission to commercialise everyday passenger air travel.

The S-A2 builds upon Supernal's initial vision concept, the S-A1, by integrating cutting-edge aerospace engineering with Hyundai Motor Group's renowned automotive design expertise. This pilot-plus-four-passenger vehicle aims to revolutionise urban transportation, offering a faster way to navigate cityscapes.

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Supernal is committed to achieving the highest levels of commercial aviation safety while ensuring affordability in production. This paves the way for a targeted market launch in 2028.

The V-tailed S-A2 boasts a cruising speed of 120 mph and an operational altitude of 1,500 feet, catering to typical urban commutes of 25-40 miles initially. Eight all-tilting rotors powered by a distributed electric propulsion system ensure efficient flight. Notably, the vehicle operates as quietly as a dishwasher during takeoff and landing (65 dB) and even quieter (45 dB) while cruising horizontally.

Passenger comfort and environmental consciousness are at the forefront of the S-A2's design. The vehicle prioritises safety with a robust airframe and redundant critical systems like powertrain, flight controls, and avionics. The all-tilting rotors provide efficient vertical lift and horizontal flight. Additionally, leveraging Hyundai's mass production capabilities keeps costs down while maintaining superior quality.

"The S-A2 product concept vehicle embodies the dedication and ingenuity of our exceptional team," said Ben Diachun, Supernal's Chief Technology Officer. "This design harnesses the potential of next-generation electric powertrains to redefine aviation."

Supernal is continuously optimising the S-A2 for certification, mass production, and broader applications. This includes a focus on modular interiors and upgradable battery technology, allowing for future advancements.

Supernal's engineers collaborated closely with Hyundai Motor Group's automotive design team to create the S-A2's aesthetics. This marriage of functionality and style aims to appeal to aviation operators and deliver a superior passenger experience in the AAM market. The cabin features distinct colour schemes and materials for pilot and passenger areas. Aviation-grade, energy-absorbing components are integrated into the seats, complementing the overall clean and minimalist design. Lighting transitions throughout flight phases enhance the sense of spaciousness and provide visual cues for passengers.

"The S-A2 exemplifies the fusion of 'auto meets aero,'" remarked Luc Donckerwolke, President and Chief Creative Officer at Hyundai Motor Group. "By uniting Supernal's top aerospace engineers with our world-renowned automotive designers, we've created a human-centric design that prioritizes passenger comfort and safety."

Supernal's presence at Farnborough underscores its commitment to innovation in the urban air mobility sector. The S-A2, with its focus on safety, sustainability, and passenger experience, positions the company as a frontrunner in this emerging field.

Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) vehicles are a revolutionary concept in urban transportation. These electrically powered aircraft can take off and land vertically, eliminating the need for long runways. Imagine a future where on-demand air taxis whisk you across congested cities quickly and conveniently. eVTOLs hold the potential to alleviate traffic congestion, reduce noise pollution, and offer new transportation options in urban areas. While the technology is still under development, companies like Supernal are at the forefront of making this vision a reality.