EHang Holdings Limited (“EHang” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: EH), a global leader in Urban Air Mobility (“UAM”) technology, has inaugurated its groundbreaking Exhibition (Experience) Center in Shenzhen’s Luohu Sports and Leisure Park. This facility is home to the world’s first EH216-S vertical takeoff and landing site, which features a fully automated vertical lift vertiport marking a monumental leap forward in urban transportation infrastructure.

Designed to enable the commercial operations of pilotless, passenger-carrying aerial vehicles, the center introduces an innovative model for urban electric vertical takeoff and landing (“eVTOL”) aircraft operations.

A glimpse into the Luohu UAM center

The Luohu UAM Center is a state-of-the-art facility developed by EHang. Spanning approximately 753 square meters, it embodies cutting-edge automated vertical lift technology designed to reduce labor costs and maximize space efficiency. The center’s layout includes a hangar and a boarding area on the first floor, offering passengers a seamless and comfortable travel experience. Above the hangar, the integrated takeoff and landing pad ensures rapid recharging of aircraft, streamlining operational workflows. This design underscores EHang’s commitment to enhancing the practicality and efficiency of UAM infrastructure.

During the launch ceremony on January 21, 2025, attendees witnessed the inaugural flight of the EH216-S aircraft at the Luohu UAM Center. After being elevated to the second floor by the vertical lift platform, the aircraft completed a smooth flight over the Luohu Sports and Leisure Park, demonstrating its capability to combine efficiency, safety, and innovation.

The strategic importance of Shenzhen’s low-altitude economy

Shenzhen’s Luohu District has embraced the low-altitude economy as a strategic priority for future growth. The district’s Low-Altitude Infrastructure High-Quality Construction Plan (2024–2026) outlines an ambitious vision to build 100 takeoff and landing sites by 2026. This plan includes 32 dedicated facilities for passenger-carrying aircraft, reflecting a concerted effort to integrate UAM into Shenzhen’s urban fabric.

Luohu District’s initiatives extend beyond infrastructure development. Comprehensive measures include top-level planning, robust policy frameworks, market cultivation, application scenario demonstrations, and talent development programs. Already, 15 vertiports have been established in the district to support passenger-carrying eVTOL operations, laying the groundwork for a vibrant low-altitude industry ecosystem.

What is the low-altitude economy?

The low-altitude economy encompasses economic activities occurring within airspace typically below 1,000 meters. This includes passenger transportation, cargo logistics, emergency response, and tourism. Its integration into urban settings is facilitated by advanced technologies such as eVTOL aircraft and automated vertiports, aiming to transform how cities utilize their airspace.

Luohu UAM center: a cultural and tourism landmark

Strategically located near iconic attractions such as Wutong Mountain and Donghu Reservoir, the Luohu UAM Center offers an unparalleled opportunity to develop low-altitude sightseeing tourism. EHang aims to harness the center’s prime location to deliver diverse services, including aerial transportation, cultural tourism, and interactive technology experiences.

EHang has deepened its partnership with the Luohu District Bureau of Culture, Broadcasting, Tourism, and Sports, which began in early 2024. Together, they are working to implement innovative business models that advance the integration of low-altitude tourism with Shenzhen’s broader cultural and economic landscape.

Pioneering a global eVTOL ecosystem

EHang’s Chief Operating Officer, Zhao Wang, highlighted the strategic significance of the Luohu UAM Center during its launch. “In collaboration with our partners, EHang has established operational infrastructure for EH216-S aircraft in cities such as Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hefei, Wuxi, Taiyuan, and Wenzhou Wencheng,” he stated. “The Luohu UAM Center, with its automated vertical lift platform design, serves as a cornerstone for our operations in Shenzhen’s low-altitude economy.

Leveraging our first-mover advantage in the eVTOL sector, we aim to develop a seamless integration of the low-altitude and ground economies, ensuring high-quality growth and safe eVTOL operations nationwide and globally.”

EHang’s commitment to innovation is exemplified by its efforts to standardize eVTOL operations and infrastructure. By creating scalable and efficient models like the Luohu UAM Center, EHang is setting a precedent for urban mobility systems worldwide, paving the way for safer and more accessible air transportation.

Conclusion

The inauguration of the Luohu UAM Center marks a significant milestone in the evolution of urban air mobility. As Shenzhen positions itself as a global leader in the low-altitude economy, EHang’s pioneering efforts will undoubtedly play a critical role in shaping the future of transportation. With its innovative infrastructure, strategic partnerships, and commitment to technological excellence, the Luohu UAM Center stands as a beacon of progress in the era of urban air mobility.

Source: EHang