Supernal, the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Group, has introduced its latest product concept, S-A2, at CES 2024. This electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle, designed to accommodate a pilot and four passengers, represents a significant milestone in Supernal's efforts to bring safe, efficient, and affordable everyday passenger air travel to the market. Building on the success of their earlier concept, S-A1, showcased at CES 2020, Supernal combines cutting-edge aerospace engineering with Hyundai Motor Group's sleek automotive design to pioneer a new mode of transportation for urban areas. With a targeted market entry in 2028, Supernal is committed to achieving commercial aviation safety standards while ensuring cost-effective manufacturing of its vehicles.

The S-A2 is a V-tail aircraft designed specifically for short city trips of 25 to 40 miles. It boasts a distributed electric propulsion architecture and features eight all-tilting rotors. With a maximum speed of 120 miles per hour and a cruising altitude of 1.500 feet, the S-A2 prioritizes safety, sustainability, and passenger comfort. Its robust airframe structure includes redundant components, ensuring compliance with global commercial aviation safety standards. The unique efficiency of the all-tilting rotor configuration enables seamless transitions between vertical lift and horizontal cruise. Manufactured with Hyundai's mass production capability, the S-A2 maintains superior quality while being cost-effective.

In terms of aesthetics, Supernal's collaboration with Hyundai Motor Group's automotive designers has resulted in a visually appealing design that combines functionality and style. The vehicle features different colour palettes and materials to separate the pilot and passenger sections. Aviation-grade, energy-absorbing components are integrated into the seat frames, contributing to the clean and minimalist overall design. Additionally, the cabin lighting transitions create a sense of spaciousness and provide visual cues for passengers.

Pictures: Hyundai Motor Group