一家低空公司破产：100亿打水漂了

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the downfall of Supernal, a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company focused on eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) technology, highlighting the challenges faced by the company and the broader implications for the eVTOL industry [3][4][10]. Group 1: Company Background and Ambitions - Supernal was established under the leadership of CEO Shin Jai-won, a former NASA executive, with significant investments from Hyundai, totaling approximately $1.45 billion [5][9]. - The company aimed to create a comprehensive urban air mobility ecosystem, including the design and sale of eVTOL aircraft, and planned to open around 200 vertical takeoff and landing airports in major cities worldwide [6][8]. Group 2: Challenges and Setbacks - Supernal faced significant challenges, including the closure of its Washington headquarters and a 10% workforce reduction, leading to a near-total turnover in its management team [11][12]. - The company attributed its suspension of operations to the early-stage development of the eVTOL industry, citing external challenges such as regulatory frameworks and infrastructure development [11][13]. Group 3: Industry Implications - The struggles of Supernal reflect a broader trend in the eVTOL sector, with other companies like Lilium and Volocopter also facing financial difficulties and bankruptcy [15][16]. - Investment in the eVTOL industry has cooled significantly, with only 15 disclosed financing events in the first half of the year, and the largest being $250 million for XPeng Heitech [16][17]. - The article emphasizes the need for caution and a long-term perspective in the eVTOL industry, as it remains in the early stages of development and faces numerous technical and regulatory hurdles [16][17].