“空中的士”拿下千架订单，低空经济从能飞到赚钱还有多远？

Core Viewpoint - The Chinese low-altitude economy is at a critical turning point, balancing between large-scale promotion and standardized management, with significant orders and challenges in achieving commercial viability [1][2]. Group 1: Industry Developments - Chinese eVTOL manufacturer Volant has signed a $1.75 billion overseas order, marking the largest overseas transaction in the eVTOL sector to date [1]. - Over 1,400 intention orders for eVTOLs have been received by Chinese manufacturers this year, indicating strong market interest [1]. - The industry faces challenges in achieving commercial viability, particularly in obtaining necessary certifications and establishing operational scenarios [1][4]. Group 2: Commercialization Challenges - The transition from "flying" to "useful flying" remains a key question for the industry, as many eVTOL projects are still in the research and testing phases [2][6]. - The core barriers to eVTOL commercialization include obtaining the "three certificates" for airworthiness: Type Certificate (TC), Production Certificate (PC), and Airworthiness Certificate (AC) [8]. - Companies like EHang and FeiYing are progressing in their certification processes, with EHang expected to complete its TC by October 2023 and AC by December 2023 [9]. Group 3: Operational Insights - Some drone companies have achieved commercial operations in specific scenarios, but many eVTOL manufacturers are still far from operational readiness [6][8]. - The cost of obtaining the necessary certifications can exceed 1 billion yuan, and the timeline from certification to operation can take 3-4 years [10]. - The industry is currently facing issues such as a shortage of qualified pilots and high accident rates, which hinder market application [14]. Group 4: Future Prospects - The eVTOL sector is expected to see a significant increase in intention orders, with over 1,580 orders reported this year [13]. - Companies are exploring various applications for eVTOLs, including urban air taxis, emergency medical transport, and aerial business shuttles, although many remain in the conceptual stage [5][6]. - The need for integrated smart solutions combining hardware and software is emphasized to enhance operational efficiency and stability [15].