Chennai-based ePlane Company has unveiled India's first electric air taxi prototype, marking a milestone after seven years of development. The compact flying taxi, measuring 8 by 11 meters, is designed to cover 100 kilometers on a single charge and is targeted for commercial launch in 2028, according to livemint.com.
The prototype, roughly half the size of a badminton court, was developed through extensive research and testing to meet urban mobility needs. ePlane Company aims to offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional rides, with fares estimated at about 2.5 times the price of an Uber ride. The company has focused on compact design and efficiency to address traffic congestion in major Indian cities such as Bengaluru and Mumbai, livemint.com reported.
This development positions India among the emerging markets advancing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology. Comparable global projects include those by Joby Aviation and Lilium, which also target urban air mobility solutions. ePlane's focus on affordability and range could make it a competitive player in the evolving electric air taxi sector, which is expected to grow as cities seek sustainable transportation options, according to livemint.com.
ePlane Company plans to continue testing and certification processes ahead of the 2028 launch. The prototype's 100-kilometer range and compact size are key features that will be evaluated in upcoming trials, with the company aiming to secure regulatory approvals and partnerships to scale operations.