Otodiva – On 29 July 2024, Hyundai Motor Group starting a new chapter in the development of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) in Indonesia by implementing proof of concept (PoC) at Aji Pangeran Tumenggung Pranoto Airport, Samarinda, East Kalimantan. This event marks a significant first step towards land-air mobility integration in Southeast Asia's largest island nation.
This PoC demonstration not only highlights the incredible potential of AAM, but also makes clear Hyundai's vision for the future of mobility. East Kalimantan, which is planned to become the new capital of Indonesia, identified as a strategic location to develop a connected eco-city with advanced AAM solutions. Ministry of Communications, Archipelago Capital Authority, and other government officials were present to witness this innovation firsthand.
During the event, Hyundai introduces an integrated mobility solution incorporating the Mobility-as-a-Service platform (MaaS) specially designed for Indonesia. The platform not only simplifies the booking and payment process for ground and air mobility services but also delivers eco-friendly electric and AAM vehicles. By utilizing Shucle, responsive mobility service platform, Hyundai shows how this technology can be applied in real-world scenarios.
Hyundai also introduced the Optionally Piloted Personal Air Vehicle (OPPAV), an AAM technology demonstrator developed with the Korea Aerospace Research Institute. This first overseas flight of the OPPAV shows advances in aircraft electric powertrain technology, leveraging Hyundai's proven expertise in electrification in the automotive sector. The Distributed Electric Propulsion technology used ensures that each motor and battery operates independently, affirms Hyundai's commitment to safety.
Besides that, Hyundai shows off the S-A2, The latest generation of AAM aircraft was first introduced at CES 2024. The S-A2 is an evolution of the S-A1 concept that debuted at CES 2020. With plans to launch the S-A2 commercially in 2028, Hyundai continues to push the boundaries of innovation in this sector.
Cheolung Kim, AAM Business Development Officer Hyundai Motor Group, provides in-depth insight into the new Ground-Air Integrated mobility service as well as key features of the S-A2. “Developing the AAM market requires more than just aircraft innovation. This effort requires collaboration across the aviation industry,” Kim explained. “Hyundai Motor Group and Supernal will continue to conduct research and development to commercialize AAM in the year 2028. We will also maintain strategic partnerships with the Indonesian government and institutions to lead the future AAM ecosystem.”
Huge Potential for the Future
As the country with the fourth largest population in the world and more than 18.000 pulau, Indonesia offers great potential for AAM applications. Realizing tremendous growth potential, Hyundai has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indonesian Ministry of Transportation and the Archipelago Capital Authority in 2022. This agreement aims to collaborate in the development of future mobility solutions, confirms Hyundai's commitment to innovation and progress in this sector.
With these promising initial steps, Hyundai Motor Group sets the foundation for the future of integrated and sustainable mobility in Indonesia. This innovation not only presents cutting-edge technology but also confirms Hyundai's commitment to supporting the development of environmentally friendly infrastructure and mobility solutions throughout the world.
