Bengaluru-based aerospace startup Sarla Aviation has unveiled its prototype air taxi, Shunya, at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo. The company aims to revolutionize urban transportation in India by launching electric flying taxis by 2028. Designed for short-distance trips of 20-30 km and capable of reaching speeds up to 250 km/h, Shunya promises to significantly reduce travel time in heavily congested cities.
The electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicle can carry up to six passengers with a maximum payload of 680 kg, making it the highest-capacity eVTOL in the market. Founded in October 2023 by Adrian Schmidt, Rakesh Gaonkar, and Shivam Chauhan, Sarla Aviation recently raised $10 million in Series A funding. The round was led by Accel, with contributions from prominent angel investors, including Flipkart co-founder Binny Bansal and Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath.
Adrian Schmidt, Co-founder and CEO of Sarla Aviation, emphasized the company’s vision, stating, “Shunya represents our commitment to redefining urban mobility in India. By addressing traffic congestion and pollution, we aim to unlock economic opportunities while building a cleaner, more connected future.”
Sarla Aviation plans to roll out its air taxi service first in Bengaluru, followed by expansions to major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Pune. The service is expected to be priced competitively, aligning with current premium taxi rates, making it an accessible option for urban commuters.
With Shunya, Sarla Aviation is poised to lead India’s transition to sustainable and efficient urban air mobility, offering a glimpse into the future of transportation.
