AutoFlight’s Matrix eVTOL: A Step Closer to Electric Air Taxis
Shanghai, China – A glimpse into the future of urban air mobility is taking shape in Shanghai, with AutoFlight’s Matrix, a 10-passenger electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. This vehicle, considered the largest electric aircraft developed in China to date, recently underwent a demonstration flight, signaling potential advancements in the emerging “low-altitude economy.”
AutoFlight’s Ambitious eVTOL Design
Founded in 2017, AutoFlight has developed the Matrix, a 5-ton eVTOL designed to carry up to 10 passengers. The aircraft boasts a 20-meter (approximately 66-foot) wingspan, a length of 17.1 meters (56 feet), and a height of 3.3 meters (11 feet). It is capable of flying for approximately one hour on a single charge. AP News
Demonstration and Testing
On February 24, 2026, AutoFlight conducted a demonstration flight for the Associated Press at its low-altitude flight test facility. The Matrix was moved from a hangar to a helipad, propellers were activated, and after routine checks, the aircraft ascended. The flight involved two laps around the heliport before a smooth landing. AP News
Regulatory Hurdles and Certification
While the Matrix represents a significant step forward, regulatory approvals remain a key challenge. AutoFlight aims to obtain a type certificate from regulators by 2027, confirming the aircraft’s design meets safety standards. However, additional approvals will be necessary to secure an operator certificate allowing for passenger transport. AP News The company similarly has a 2-ton passenger eVTOL version awaiting certification.
China’s Low-Altitude Economy
AutoFlight’s development aligns with China’s broader push into the “low-altitude economy,” which already includes drone-based food delivery services, such as those implemented in Shenzhen. However, the widespread adoption of flying taxis requires significant infrastructure development and logistical solutions, including safety guarantees and routing protocols. AP News
Industry Outlook and Competition
Other Chinese companies are also actively developing eVTOL aircraft. WIDE, based in Guangdong province, has reportedly received certification to offer commercial passenger services, though these services have not yet launched. AP News According to Gary Ng, a senior economist at Natixis Corporate and Investment Banking, it will likely take at least three years to see a viable and widespread air taxi system in place. AP News
The Matrix Specifications
- Wingspan: 20 meters (66 feet)
- Length: 17.1 meters (56 feet)
- Height: 3.3 meters (11 feet)
- Maximum Take-off Weight: 5,700 kg
- Cabin Length: 5.25 meters
- Cabin Width: 1.8 meters
- Aisle Height: 1.85 meters
Despite the challenges, AutoFlight remains optimistic about the future of electric air travel. “We really believe it will happen,” said Steven Yang, senior vice president of AutoFlight. “But this is not (only) AutoFlight’s job, it’s the whole ecosystem.” AP News