Xpeng Aeroht, the flying car division of Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Xpeng (NYSE: XPEV), has formalized a strategic partnership with local engine maker Harbin Dongan Auto Engine to advance the mass production of its modular flying car.
The agreement, officially signed on May 21, marks a key collaboration aimed at developing next-generation aerospace hybrid system technologies, according to a statement released today by Harbin Dongan.
The partnership focuses on designing energy-efficient, lightweight, and cost-effective aviation-specific hybrid power systems that will serve as the core propulsion units for Xpeng Aeroht’s upcoming flying car models.
Established in 2013, Xpeng Aeroht is predominantly owned by Guangzhou-based Xpeng and helmed by chairman and CEO He Xiaopeng.
Harbin Dongan initially joined forces with Xpeng Aeroht in July 2023, supplying range extenders for the “mother vehicle” component of the “Land Aircraft Carrier” modular flying car. This vehicle boasts a CLTC driving range exceeding 1,000 kilometers and has the capability to recharge the detachable flying unit.
Xpeng Aeroht’s flying car development roadmap includes both eVTOL (Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing) vehicles and modular flying cars, as outlined during Xpeng’s October 2023 Tech Day.
The modular flying car system comprises two components: a flying vehicle and a parent vehicle designed to recharge the flying unit. Founder and president Zhao Deli announced in September 2024 that mass production and delivery are targeted for 2026, with the price expected to stay below RMB 2 million ($276,800).
Construction of Xpeng Aeroht’s dedicated manufacturing facility in Guangzhou began last October, with an anticipated annual production capacity of 10,000 units.
Earlier this month, the company announced that the Civil Aviation Administration of China has accepted its application for a Production Certificate for the flying component of its modular flying car—an essential step toward regulatory approval of its mass production system.
This milestone positions Xpeng Aeroht at the forefront of commercial flying car production, advancing closer to revolutionizing urban air mobility.