Hyundai-backed eVTOL developer Supernal has revealed the second version of its concept aircraft at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
The S-A2 is a four-passenger vehicle with a cruise speed of 120mph (190km/h) at a 1,500ft altitude and a range of up to 40 miles (65km). The aircraft uses eight tilting rotors in a distributed electric propulsion architecture.
According to Supernal, the SA-2 will operate as quietly as a dishwasher – 65dB in vertical take-off and landing phases and 45dB while cruising horizontally.
The company started work on the eVTOL aircraft four years ago and plans to start operating it in 2028.
Jaiwon Shin, president of Hyundai Motor Group and CEO of Supernal said, “From the beginning, Supernal has been on a mission to create the right product and the right market at the right time.
“The unveiling of S-A2 demonstrates our unwavering commitment to deliver on that mission with a safe, efficient vehicle design that provides a clear path to market entry. By leveraging our talented 600-person team, the vast technical and business capabilities of Hyundai Motor Group and trusted aviation suppliers around the world, Supernal is ready to deliver a new era of flight.”
Supernal said it is optimizing its vehicle for mass production and expanded and is focused on developing the vehicle’s interior modularity, battery upgradability and the ability to replace the battery.
“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 maximizes passenger experience and safety,” said Luc Donckerwolke, president, chief design officer and chief creative officer, Hyundai Motor Group.
