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].

Core Insights - Yiwit Aviation has recently completed a Series A financing round of several hundred million RMB, led by Jinfeng Investment, with participation from several other investors, to support the development of its main aircraft model and production capabilities for its electric propulsion system [1][11] - The company aims to accelerate urban air mobility (UAM) development and provide innovative solutions for future aerial transportation [1][10] - 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 [1][8] Company Overview - Yiwit Aviation was established in 2022, with a core team from COMAC, having experience in developing major aircraft models like the ARJ21 and C919 [1][10] - The company's flagship product is the ET9 eVTOL, which can carry five people, has a maximum takeoff weight of 2.2 tons, a range of 240 kilometers, and a maximum speed of 240 km/h [2][4] Product Development - The ET9 features a four-axis eight-rotor configuration and utilizes over 85% carbon fiber composite materials, resulting in a lightweight and modular design [2][4] - The company has also developed the ET3 hydrogen-lithium hybrid model, targeting long-distance inspection and survey needs with a range of up to 800 kilometers [2][4] Technological Advancements - Yiwit Aviation's self-developed electric propulsion system (EPS) has achieved full domestic production of motors, controls, and propellers, significantly reducing production costs compared to imported solutions [4][5] - The ET9 prototype completed its first flight in just 17 months, shorter than the industry average, and has conducted over 400 test flights to optimize flight control algorithms and structural design [4][5] Regulatory Challenges - The company is working towards obtaining airworthiness certification for its main models, with cargo certification expected in 2026 and passenger certification in 2027 [7][8] - Yiwit Aviation has established a simulation testing platform in collaboration with Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics to expedite the verification process [7][8] Market Strategy - The company has adopted a strategy of "order pre-positioning and scenario demonstration" to secure policy support and explore low-risk application scenarios [8][11] - Yiwit Aviation has signed over 300 letters of intent for various aircraft types, including cargo drones and passenger eVTOLs, and plans to open its EPS system to third-party manufacturers by 2026 [8][11] Investment Perspective - Investors view the low-altitude economy as a significant emerging industry in China with vast growth potential, highlighting Yiwit Aviation's strong team and capabilities in eVTOL development [11][12] - The company is recognized for its rapid development and operational efficiency, making it a leading player in the eVTOL market [12]