China is looking to start electric aircraft exports this year and develop offshore production as part of its drive to develop the so-called low-altitude economy.
Advertisement
The RX4E, a four-seater electric aircraft made by Rhyxeon General Aircraft Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Liaoning General Aviation Academy, is being targeted at Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Africa.
Indonesia, which has more than 17,000 islands, and Malaysia are among the potential export markets, according Henry Hooi Hing-lee, the founding chairman of Hong Kong-based Volar Air Mobility, which is in partnership with the developers.
The RX series will also be introduced to the United Arab Emirates, and Volar hopes to benefit from its established networks in Africa. The company says it has an agreement with the developers to commercialise the plane in 15 countries, including for manufacturing operations.
The firm signed a collaboration agreement with the Kenya Investment Authority in 2023 to bring green aviation into the country.
Advertisement
“The electric aircraft seeks to address the local population’s needs, particularly in countries where the road infrastructure is perhaps lacking,” Hooi said.