China’s Xpeng plans to mass-produce flying cars by 2026, advancing its "low-altitude economy" push with government support for infrastructure and regulations.
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| China is set to lead the flying car revolution as Xpeng prepares to begin mass production in 2026, with strong government backing for the low-altitude economy. Image: ChicHue |
Beijing, China — March 10, 2025:
China is on track to bring flying cars into mainstream use, with electric vehicle maker Xpeng planning to begin mass production in 2026. This aligns with the country’s strategy to develop its "low-altitude economy," which includes aerial mobility solutions such as passenger drones, air taxis, and unmanned deliveries, reports ST.
Xpeng’s innovative design integrates a detachable passenger drone into a six-wheeled van, allowing users to drive to a take-off site before switching to air travel. The vehicle, priced under two million yuan, was showcased at the Zhuhai Airshow in November 2024 and has since garnered around 3,000 intended orders.
The company broke ground on a dedicated factory in October, designed to produce up to 10,000 flying cars annually once completed in early 2026. "In 2026, Xpeng plans to mass produce, for the first time, our modular flying car," said He Xiaopeng, the company’s chairman and CEO, on March 8. He added that deliveries could begin later that year, positioning Xpeng as the world’s first company to mass-produce and distribute such vehicles.
China has prioritized developing its low-altitude economy, incorporating it into the government’s annual work report in 2024 and reaffirming its importance in 2025. Regulatory bodies are now working to create policies, certification processes, and airspace management strategies to support the industry’s expansion.
Other automakers, including the state-owned GAC Group, are also investing in flying car technology. However, challenges remain, including airspace regulations, pilot certification, and integration with existing transport networks. "Many issues remain, including certifications, pilot training, and airspace management," He said.
While widespread commercial adoption will take time, the first batch of flying cars is expected to be used for short-haul transport, tourism, and emergency response missions. Experts suggest that China’s early leadership in this sector could give it a competitive edge in shaping global aerial mobility.