India unveils first eVTOL flying taxi prototype 'Shunya' at Bharat Mobility Expo 2025

India has officially launched its first electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) flying taxi, named ‘Shunya’, at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 in New Delhi. The prototype, developed by Sarla Aviation, a Bengaluru-based aerospace company, represents a major step towards integrating sustainable air mobility solutions into urban environments. The ‘Shunya’ aircraft is designed to address major challenges such as traffic congestion and pollution while offering a faster, more efficient alternative to traditional ground-based transportation in crowded urban centers.

The ‘Shunya’ aircraft is capable of carrying up to six passengers, with a maximum payload capacity of 680 kg, positioning it as one of the highest payload eVTOLs available in the market. The aircraft is engineered to reach speeds of up to 250 km/h and is optimized for short-distance flights, particularly for journeys ranging between 20-30 km. The vertical take-off and landing capabilities of ‘Shunya’ enable it to operate in urban areas with limited space, such as dense city centers and rooftops, providing flexibility in terms of routes and landing sites.

Sarla Aviation has entered into a strategic partnership with Sona SPEED, a precision engineering firm based in Karnataka, to manufacture critical components for the ‘Shunya’ aircraft. Under the terms of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Sona SPEED will be responsible for designing and producing vital parts, including the aircraft’s motors and landing gear, leveraging its advanced manufacturing capabilities. Sona SPEED’s involvement in aerospace engineering is bolstered by its track record of contributing to Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) missions, enhancing the precision and reliability of the components being developed.

The project has received notable support from investors, including securing USD 10 million in Series A1 funding, led by Accel, with additional backing from angel investors such as Flipkart co-founder Binny Bansal and Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath. This funding will be pivotal in accelerating the development of the technology, allowing for further prototype development and the establishment of a state-of-the-art research and development center. Sarla Aviation plans to begin test flights in the coming years, with the goal of launching commercial services by 2028.

Sarla Aviation's vision extends beyond passenger transport. The company also plans to introduce a free-of-cost air ambulance service, aimed at improving emergency medical response times in urban areas where traffic congestion can cause delays in traditional ground-based ambulances. This initiative could significantly enhance access to critical healthcare in densely populated cities, leveraging the speed and flexibility of eVTOL technology to reach patients more quickly.

The potential for urban air mobility in India is expanding rapidly, with increasing interest from both the private sector and the Indian government. The unveiling of ‘Shunya’ at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo is a clear indication of India’s commitment to advancing innovative transportation solutions. With its eVTOL technology, Sarla Aviation aims to pave the way for sustainable, faster, and more efficient urban transport. The company plans to pilot these aircraft in Bengaluru, with future expansion to Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, and other metropolitan cities. As the project progresses, it is expected to redefine the way people travel within cities, reducing travel time and congestion while contributing to India’s broader goals of environmental sustainability and technological advancement.