World’s 1st Air Taxi that uses both Batteries & Hydrogen cells to Fly

The World Premiere of HAM III-2 at CES 2025 marked the latest advancement in urban air mobility (UAM) technology from South Korea’s Sambo Motors Group.

By outperforming the HAM III-1 in terms of size, performance, and technological sophistication, this two-seater hybrid aircraft marks a major advancement in the UAM industry.

With its remarkable wingspan of 9 meters, height of 4.5 meters, and weight of 850 kilos, the HAM III-2 is built to carry several passengers. The aircraft is poised to revolutionize fuel efficiency and flying safety in the expanding UAM industry thanks to its hybrid powertrain.

“Given its range and flight time, it will be suitable for military purposes, messenger and commercial purposes. In the future, it’s going to be for commercial, like, city to city or point-to-point taxis,” A company representative informed Interesting Engineering, at CES 2025.

A New Chapter in Hybrid Aircraft

The HAM III-2 is notable for its dual power system. The aircraft only uses battery power during vertical takeoff, which lowers pollutants and noise. In order to reduce the need for bulky onboard batteries, it switches to hydrogen-powered fuel cells for horizontal flight once in the air. This creative design balances performance and energy efficiency, addressing important issues in UAM development.

The Airplane has two sizable propellers located on the back for forward propulsion and four horizontal propellers for vertical lift. It is a perfect option for short-distance urban trips because of its configuration, which allows it to reach a cruising speed of 112 mph, a range of up to 62 miles, and a flying endurance of 40 minutes.

In early 2025, Sambo Motors is preparing for a battery of demanding flying tests in the US. The corporation will have an opportunity to evaluate the aircraft’s performance in a range of climates by conducting the hydrogen fuel cell testing in the desert. To verify its functionality and safety features, key operations like turning, descending, and climbing will be assessed.

Since Korea does not yet have the legal framework in place to permit hydrogen fuel cell flight tests, this testing phase is especially important. Sambo Motors hopes to showcase the aircraft’s distinct benefits and establish the foundation for upcoming legislative developments in its homeland by carrying out these tests overseas.

UAM Redefining

The HAM III-2 is now going through certification procedures with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Korea Office of Civil Aviation. A crucial stage in the aircraft’s journey to commercialization, Sambo hopes to accomplish the milestone by the end of the year, even though the aircraft has not yet conducted its maiden flight.

The HAM III-2’s pragmatic and progressive design distinguishes it from conventional UAM designs. In addition to increasing range, the aircraft overcomes the weight constraints of traditional batteries by incorporating hydrogen fuel cells into its engine.

Sambo Motors is set to break new ground in urban air mobility with its creative design and impending flight tests. As the aviation industry develops further, the HAM III-2 is a daring move toward a time when air travel will be safe, effective, and environmentally friendly.

Article Link: https://interestingengineering.com/