AI Digest Pending…
Shanghai, July 16 — UAE-based Autocraft and Shanghai-based Tcab Tech today signed a procurement agreement in Shanghai, committing to a $1 billion (approx. RMB 7.1 billion) order for 350 units of Tcab Tech’s independently developed E20 electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. This transaction significantly surpasses the previous domestic industry record of RMB 3.5 billion in tentative orders set in February 2025, establishing a new milestone for China’s eVTOL sector in single-order value.
Originating from a strategic agreement at the 7th China International Import Expo, this collaboration aims to develop low-altitude tourism and urban air mobility markets across the Middle East and North Africa, reflecting deepened China-UAE high-tech cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative.
The E20 features a tilt-rotor configuration and pure-electric propulsion, carrying five passengers for up to 200 kilometers. Its five-blade propeller design reduces vertical takeoff noise to approximately 70 decibels (comparable to a sedan) and minimizes ground-level noise during cruise, offering an innovative solution for urban green 3D transportation. The model’s airworthiness certification application has been accepted by the East China Regional Administration of the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) and entered the compliance verification phase. Mass production is expected to commence in 2027.
"This order is a powerful vote of confidence from the global market in China’s homegrown aviation technology," stated Huang Yongwei, CEO of Tcab Tech and former Chief Engineer of Airbus China. Having pioneered breakthroughs in tilt-rotor systems and flight control technologies, Huang envisions that "a trip from Shanghai’s Minhang to Suzhou could take just minutes at a cost comparable to ground taxis".
Tariq Al Ahmad, Vice President of Autocraft, emphasized: "Our partnership with Tcab Tech stems from their technical foresight and systematic delivery capabilities. This large-scale procurement will establish a next-generation urban air mobility network in the Middle East, fully aligning with the Belt and Road Initiative’s principle of ‘extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits.’" The deal not only marks a milestone for China’s high-end aviation exports but also delivers a "Chinese solution" for green transportation transformation among Belt and Road partners.
The E20’s rapid development leverages Shanghai’s forward-looking policy support, including its 2022 and 2024 low-altitude economy action plans. Collaborative efforts with institutions like the Civil Aviation University of China—establishing joint airworthiness labs—have accelerated production capacity deployment, backed by investments from the Minhang District government.
Huang confirmed the E20 is poised to become China’s first tilt-rotor eVTOL to obtain airworthiness certification. As production scales up, this "air taxi" born in Minhang will compete globally, showcasing China’s green aviation technology.
