EHang Unveils First EH216-F Firefighting eVTOL in Beijing Assembly Milestone

EHang Holdings Limited announced a key manufacturing milestone in Beijing, China, with the rollout of the first EH216-F firefighting eVTOL aircraft. The pilotless electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft was completed at the company's Low-Altitude Emergency Rescue Equipment Headquarters in Fangshan District. This event marks the first anniversary of a strategic partnership between EHang and the local government.

Advancing Low-Altitude Emergency Rescue

The rollout signifies a solid start for EHang's manufacturing efforts in the low-altitude emergency rescue sector. It is a benchmark project for government-enterprise collaboration and industrial integration. Officials from the Beijing Fangshan District Government, including Deputy Secretary and District Mayor Zhixin Di, attended the ceremony.

EHang's Chief Operating Officer, Zhao Wang, highlighted the importance of the sector. He noted that low-altitude emergency rescue is a vital component of the broader China's low-altitude economy.

The Fangshan Headquarters will become a comprehensive base. It will integrate research and development (R&D), testing, assembly, maintenance, and training. This foundation supports the sustainable development of China's emergency response capabilities.

The EH216-F's Role in Firefighting

The EH216-F is designed to address the challenge of high-rise fires. Traditional ground-based ladders often cannot reach upper floors. The aircraft can operate at altitudes up to 600 meters (1,969 feet).

The EHang EH216-F firefighting eVTOL carries a substantial payload. It can carry up to 220 kg (485 lb) of firefighting material. This includes fire-extinguishing foam and six fire projectiles. The aircraft uses a high-pressure nozzle system.

Its features include a 10x zoom camera and a laser aiming device. These tools ensure precise deployment of fire suppression materials. The aircraft's autonomous nature allows for rapid response. It can take off immediately upon receiving an alarm. This makes it a crucial asset for modern emergency management. More details on the broader industry can be found in our latest commercial aviation news. (https://flying.flights)

Policy Support and Industry Impact

This manufacturing milestone aligns with major national policies. China's 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) reinforces the low-altitude economy as a strategic emerging industry. This is a priority alongside AI and quantum technology.

Furthermore, the General Aviation Equipment Innovation and Application Implementation Plan (2024-2030) sets clear goals. It targets the commercial deployment of unmanned electric intelligent general aviation equipment by 2027. This includes use in emergency rescue scenarios.

EHang's work in Beijing aims to establish a national benchmark project. It advances modern emergency rescue management. The company is a key player in the global Advanced Air Mobility technology sector. Other manufacturers, such as Airbus, are also exploring eVTOL applications. The regulatory landscape is also evolving globally, with bodies like EASA setting standards.

Zhao Wang emphasized the goal of delivering safer, smarter, and more efficient solutions. This work strengthens the low-altitude emergency rescue ecosystem. It supports the modernization of China's emergency systems during the current policy period. The Fangshan District government is committed to deepening cooperation. They will focus on aircraft manufacturing and aviation batteries. This promotes technology integration across the entire value chain.