AutoFlight unveils world’s largest flying car as China races to lead low-altitude economy

AutoFlight, a Chinese aviation startup backed by CATL, unveiled Matrix, a five-tonne electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, claiming it to be the world's largest. The unveiling took place at a testing facility in Kunshan, near Shanghai. Matrix comes in passenger and cargo variants, with the passenger version capable of carrying 10 people. AutoFlight is one of several Chinese companies, including Ehang and Xpeng, competing in the eVTOL market as China aims to lead the low-altitude economy. The Chinese government is actively developing standards for the industry, with plans to establish basic standards by 2027 and comprehensive standards by 2030, covering aircraft, infrastructure, air traffic management, safety, and applications.

In February 2026, Chinese startup AutoFlight publicly demonstrated its V5000 Matrix flying car. The demonstration showcased the company's 5-tonne-class electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The V5000 Matrix is designed to carry up to 10 passengers. AutoFlight claims the flying car's operating costs are significantly lower than those of traditional helicopters, estimating them to be one-tenth of the cost. The company is positioning the V5000 Matrix as a cost-effective alternative for passenger transportation.