On November 21, EHang announced its participation in the European Union-funded SBAS (EGNOS) application project for multi-rotor vertical take-off and landing aircraft (hereinafter referred to as “SAMVA project”), according to an article posted by EHang on Chinese social media.

The project will deploy the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) for the operation of electric vertical take-off and landing vehicles (eVTOL) such as the autonomous vehicle EH216 in Europe.

Initiated by the European Union Space Program Agency (EUSPA), the SAMVA project focuses on the deployment of EGNOS satellite applications on eVTOL to better integrate advanced air mobility services and U-Space airspace. The project alliance members are composed of highly recognized partners in the industry, including Aeroports de Catalunya, EHang, Pildo Labs, Airport Regional Committee, Thales -Alenia Space and Eliance.

Through the SAMVA project, Catalonia Airport Management Group and EHang plan to establish an autonomous aircraft operation center at Lleida-Alguaire Airport for the EH216 flight demonstration deploying the EGNOS system. It also demonstrates how the EGNOS system supports and enhances UAS traffic management (UTM) and the operation of autonomous aerial vehicles in urban environments.

Participation in the SAMVA project will allow EHang to explore and expand the application of autonomous aircraft in the airport environment, which will help achieve a more converged and sustainable airspace and further promote safe, autonomous and environmentally friendly air mobility solutions in Europe.

Xiang Jing, Chief Operating Officer of EHang Europe and Latin America, said,
“The SAMVA project will give full play to the EGNOS system on the EHang intelligent EH216 autopilot aircraft to provide accurate and complete navigation and guidance capabilities, and support U-Space fusion airspace. Participating in this project reflects that as EHang continues to expand its global presence, we can continue to make significant progress overseas with strong industry-leading technology. At the same time, EHang will continue to work with global partners to make further progress in the innovative development of safe, sustainable and advanced air mobility, and create a better life for everyone. “