China is gearing up to dominate the electric flying car market, much like it has with electric vehicles. According to a Chinese trade group, the country aims to have over 100,000 autonomous drones, flying cars, and electric air taxis buzzing above its cities by 2030. This vision is part of a broader plan to build what officials are calling the “low-altitude economy.” Beyond transforming its own urban skies, China also wants to become the go-to supplier of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for developing countries across Asia and even advanced markets like Japan.
Reaching the ambitious 100,000 flying vehicle milestone won’t be easy. It will require substantial investments in production facilities and infrastructure. However, progress is already underway. Chinese eVTOL maker AutoFlight recently conducted its first test flight in Japan, collaborating with the aerospace nonprofit MASC. The flight of its five-seat Prosperity aircraft is part of a long-term strategy to connect Japan’s aging coastal regions and isolated areas with better transport options.
The success of the test flight sets the stage for broader adoption in Japan. Earlier this year, AutoFlight secured its first international sale of the Prosperity to a Japanese customer, who plans to showcase it at events like the World Expo in Osaka next year. Back in China, AutoFlight has been breaking records, including a 155.5-mile flight in 2024, surpassing U.S. rival Joby. The company also became the second Chinese eVTOL maker to earn an airworthiness certificate from China’s aviation authorities, marking a major milestone.
Other players in the Chinese eVTOL space, like EHang, are also making strides. EHang has already delivered over 300 two-seat EH216-S aircraft and recently gained type certification from China’s Civil Aviation Administration. The company is expanding globally, with production facilities in China and a new one planned in Abu Dhabi. Meanwhile, Xpeng Aeroht and Volant Aerotech are ramping up operations, with hundreds of preorders and plans for mass production by 2026.
The rapid growth of this industry is being driven by the Chinese government’s initiative to boost its economy through emerging technologies. Earlier this year, Premier Li Qiang emphasized the importance of the “low-altitude economy” as a strategic priority. To support this vision, the China Low Altitude Economic Alliance—a coalition of 100 companies—is creating guidelines to help cities implement commercial air mobility solutions.
While the road ahead is full of challenges, including the lack of established business models for the low-altitude economy, the enthusiasm is undeniable. As Luo Jun, the alliance’s executive director, noted, the industry is both “excited and confused” about its future. However, with state backing and a clear national focus, China is well-positioned to shape the global eVTOL market in the years to come.
