Aerofugia CMO Highlights eVTOL Industry's "20-80 Rule" in Supply Chain Integration with New Energy Vehicles
At the 2025 International Advanced Air Mobility Expo (IAAME), Aerofugia, an eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) manufacturer, unveiled its strategic product AE200's new "Smart Flex Cabin" in collaboration with FAWAY Group, an automotive parts supplier. The cabin design, featuring a "triple-screen" layout, zero-gravity seats, a refrigerator, and a starry ceiling, mirrors trends in smart electric vehicles, signalling a convergence between the eVTOL and automotive industries.
"20-80 Rule" Shapes Supply Chain Strategy
Lan Fei, Chief Marketing Officer of Aerofugia, emphasised the overlap between eVTOL and new energy vehicle (NEV) supply chains: "The eVTOL industry will ultimately share 80% of its supply chain with NEVs. Components like infotainment systems can leverage automotive expertise, but critical aviation technologies—flight control and avionics—must adhere to strict aviation standards."
The partnership with FAWAY Group demonstrates this integration, applying automotive advancements in materials, precision manufacturing, and ergonomic design to eVTOL cabins. However, aviation-grade safety requirements—such as fire-resistant materials, electromagnetic compatibility, and 26G crash safety—demand rigorous adaptation of automotive supply chains.
Commercialisation Roadmap: 2026 Airworthiness Certification Targeted
Aerofugia aims to complete airworthiness certification for its six-seat AE200 by 2026, following its entry into the fourth phase of China's eVTOL certification process. The company has secured hundreds of pre-orders from partners like Sichuan Airlines and China National Aviation Holding.
The AE200, with a 200-kilometre range, targets urban air mobility (UAM), low-altitude tourism, and emergency medical transport. For instance, a flight from Shanghai's Pudong Airport to Lujiazui could take 10 minutes, compared to 40 minutes by road. The company also plans to integrate its eVTOLs into ride-hailing platforms like Caocao Mobility post-certification.
Global Expansion and Hong Kong Market Entry
Aerofugia is eyeing markets in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Hong Kong, where it has initiated talks with local airlines and enterprises. The company aims to pioneer a "aircraft + eVTOL" seamless transfer model in Hong Kong, leveraging its dense urban layout and high demand for business travel.
Aerofugia is a subsidiary of Geely Holding Group, specialising in electric aviation R&D and manufacturing. Its AE200 prototype debuted at the 2024 China Airshow, with mass production planned at its Chengdu headquarters by late 2025.
Source: QQ
