China's EHang to build vertiport in Italy, expanding into EU

Chinese air-taxi company EHang is to partner with Italian architect firm Giancarlo Zema Design Group (GZDG) to design and construct Europe's first "vertiport" in Italy, marking the company's first step of expanding into the EU.

EHang says that GZDG's design uses sustainable materials and will generate its own electricity to recharge the company's EH216 carriers via photovoltaic panels, able to generate over 300kW of energy.

Inspired by the African baobab tree, the vertiport will be 30 metres (98 feet) high, featuring a steel and laminated wooden structure with a cafe, waiting room and panoramic restaurant.

Take-off and landing platforms will be set on the roof.

Also read: Coventry to host world's first eVTOL airport

Vertiports are set to play a significant role in the Urban Air Mobility market as the aviation and transportation sectors look for faster and cleaner modes of transport.

The aim of the EHang partnership with GZDG is to target urban areas as well as the burgeoning eco-tourism sectors in Europe and South East Asia.

Last April, EHang and the City of Hezhou in Guangxi, China, partnered for the world's first Autonomous Aerial Vehicle E-port.

The company received approval from Chinese regulators at the end of 2019 to launch an air taxi service in Guangzhou. 

In July last year, regulatory approval was granted for the EH216 in Quebec.

Based in Rome, GZDG specialises in smart, sustainable architectural projects semi-submerged structures, floating habitats, yachts and interior design.

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