RT team
Anand Mahindra, Chairman of the Mahindra Group, has introduced India’s first electric flying taxi prototype, highlighting a significant step forward in the country’s electric air mobility initiatives. Developed by the ePlane Company, a startup from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, this pioneering prototype is scheduled for operational testing next year, reflecting India’s leading position in advanced transportation technologies.
Mahindra praised IIT Madras for its role as a dynamic center of innovation, emphasizing that such efforts are helping to transform India’s image from being innovation-constrained to a leader in global technological advancements.
The prototype, known as the ePlane e200, is a two-seater aircraft designed for both passenger commute and cargo transport within cities. It features a cruising speed of 160 km/h and can reach a top speed of 200 km/h, offering a potential solution to urban traffic congestion by significantly cutting travel times. The aircraft can cover distances up to 200 kilometers on a single charge, showcasing its capability as a sustainable transport option.
The ePlane Company, founded in 2017 by Satya Chakravarthy and Pranjal Mehta at IIT Madras, aims to revolutionize urban transport. Chakravarthy stated that the ePlane e200 is engineered to facilitate up to ten times faster intra-city travel and more efficient cargo logistics, ultimately aiming to alleviate urban road congestion.
This unveiling marks a critical milestone in India’s journey toward sustainable transportation solutions, with the backing of institutions like IIT Madras and leaders such as Anand Mahindra. The collaboration between academia and industry leaders sets a strong foundation for India’s future in high-tech, green mobility solutions.
