A Chinese aviation startup has demonstrated what could be the future of larger-scale flying taxis with the Matrix, a 5-ton electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle.
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AutoFlight, founded in 2017 and based near Shanghai, showcased the aircraft in a public test at its Kunshan facility, marking it as China’s largest electric aircraft to date and a step toward redefining urban air mobility.
Impressive Scale and Specs
The Matrix boasts a 20-meter wingspan, measures 17.1 meters long and 3.3 meters tall (about 56 feet by 11 feet), and can carry up to 10 passengers. It features VTOL capabilities for vertical lift and landing, powered entirely by electricity.
During the chilly afternoon demo observed by reporters, the remotely piloted craft rose from a helipad, completed two smooth laps in roughly 10 minutes, and landed without issues—noisier than expected but quieter than a traditional helicopter.
Path to Flying Taxis and Beyond
AutoFlight envisions the Matrix as a potential flying taxi or regional transport option, with a one-hour flight endurance without recharging. The company offers passenger and heavy-duty logistics variants, aiming to challenge smaller eVTOLs (typically 4-6 seats) from global competitors.
While experts note the industry is years from widespread commercial flying taxis due to certification, infrastructure, and regulatory hurdles, this demo highlights China’s push in the low-altitude economy. Backed by battery giant CATL, AutoFlight positions the aircraft to disrupt short-haul aviation with lower operating costs, especially for cargo missions claimed to be one-tenth those of helicopters.