Supernal LLC – Hyundai Motor Group’s Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) company – has unveiled S-A2, its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle product concept at CES 2024.
The pilot-plus-four-passenger vehicle marks another significant steo towards realizing the dream of commercializing safe, efficient, and affordable everyday air travel.
Evolution from Vision to Reality
The S-A2 concept represents Supernal’s latest commitment to revolutionize urban transportation. Building upon the innovative S-A1 concept introduced at CES 2020, the S-A2 integrates cutting-edge aerospace engineering.
It incoprorates Hyundai Motor Group’s iconic automotive design, creating a novel mode of transportation that promises to cut travel times from point A to B in urban areas.
Jaiwon Shin, President of Hyundai Motor Group and CEO of Supernal, emphasized the company’s dedication to delivering the right product to the right market at the right time.
“The unveiling of S-A2 demonstrates our unwavering commitment to deliver on that mission with a safe, efficient vehicle design that provides a clear path to market entry,” Shin stated confidently.
Technical Details of S-A2
The S-A2 boasts a V-tail aircraft design capable of cruising at 120 miles per hour at a 1,500-foot altitude, perfectly aligning with the operational needs of 25- to 40-mile city trips.
With a distributed electric propulsion architecture and eight tilting rotors, this marvel of engineering ensures a smooth and quiet travel experience.
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During vertical takeoff and landing phases, the eVTOL S-A2 operates at a mere 65 dB, akin to the hum of a dishwasher, while cruising horizontally at a whisper-quiet 45 dB.
Safety is paramount, with a robust airframe structure incorporating redundant components in critical systems such as powertrain, flight controls, and avionics.
Ben Diachun, Chief Technology Officer of Supernal, expressed excitement about the project, stating, “S-A2 is designed to take full advantage of emerging electric powertrain advancements that will define the next generation of aviation.”
Sustainability and Passenger Comfort
Engineered for sustainability and passenger comfort, the S-A2 adheres to global commercial aviation safety standards.
The all-tilting rotor configuration enhances efficiency during both vertical-lift and horizontal-cruise phases. Leveraging Hyundai’s mass production capability ensures superior quality at an affordable cost.
Supernal is future-proofing the eVTOL S-A2 by focusing on interior modularity and battery upgradability. The ability to replace the battery module as technology advances ensures that the S-A2 remains at the forefront of innovation.
Design Aesthetics
Collaborating with Hyundai Motor Group’s automotive designers, Supernal’s engineering teams have not only focused on functionality but also elevated the S-A2’s aesthetics.
The fusion of design and functionality aims to attract aviation operators and create an unparalleled AAM passenger experience.
Luc Donckerwolke, President, Chief Design Officer, and Chief Creative Officer of Hyundai Motor Group, described the S-A2 as a true representation of ‘auto meets aero.’
The design neatly integrates aviation-grade, energy-absorbing components into the minimalist structure, ensuring a clean, sleek appearance.
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