Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent A-round financing of Yiwit Aviation, a developer of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, highlighting its potential in urban air mobility and the challenges it faces in certification and supply chain maturity [4][5]. Financing and Development - Yiwit Aviation has completed several hundred million RMB in A-round financing, led by Jinpu Investment, with participation from other investors [4]. - The funds will primarily be used for the development and certification of its main aircraft model and the construction of production capacity for its electric propulsion system [5]. Market Demand and Challenges - According to Guojin Securities, the demand for eVTOLs in China is expected to reach 16,316 units by 2030, covering various services such as short-distance passenger flights and medical transport [5]. - The industry faces challenges such as long certification cycles and low supply chain maturity, which hinder commercialization [5]. Product Overview - Yiwit Aviation's core product is the ET9 eVTOL, designed to carry five people with a maximum takeoff weight of 2.2 tons, a range of 240 kilometers, and a maximum speed of 240 km/h [6]. - The company is also developing the ET3 hydrogen-lithium hybrid energy model, targeting long-distance inspection and survey needs with a range of 800 kilometers [6]. Technical Innovations - The ET9 features a composite wing design that combines the flexibility of vertical takeoff with the long-range capabilities of fixed-wing aircraft [8]. - Yiwit has achieved full domestic production of its electric propulsion system, significantly reducing costs compared to imported solutions [9]. Certification and Testing - The company aims to complete cargo certification by 2026 and passenger certification by 2027, with a simulation testing platform established in collaboration with Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics [11]. - Yiwit has conducted over 400 test flights, using the data for system validation and optimization [8]. Strategic Partnerships and Orders - Yiwit has signed over 300 letters of intent for orders, including emergency rescue and logistics solutions, and plans to open its electric propulsion system to third-party manufacturers by 2026 [12]. - The company is collaborating with Didi Chuxing and other partners to explore low-altitude operations [12]. Team and Expertise - The founding team includes experienced professionals from COMAC, with an average industry experience of over 15 years, focusing on integrated aircraft development [14]. - The team employs a model-based systems engineering approach to enhance the aircraft development process [14]. Investor Insights - Investors express confidence in Yiwit Aviation's capabilities, highlighting its strong team and the potential of the low-altitude economy as a strategic emerging industry in China [15][16].
前中国商飞团队转战eVTOL、合作滴滴出行,拿下数亿元A轮融资|早起看早期
36氪·2025-08-29 00:10