Chinese Advanced Air Mobility leader EHang Holdings Limited (Nasdaq: EH) has unveiled the EH216-EK, a fully autonomous, pilotless electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft designed for aerial firefighting. The aircraft debuted at EHang’s Wencheng Smart Manufacturing Center in China on November 4, 2026, where it also completed a live firefighting demonstration flight.
The EH216-EK is designed to respond to early-stage fires in forests, grasslands, large industrial parks, and warehousing and logistics facilities—where rapid aerial response can help prevent a blaze from spreading. Key specifications include:
- Maximum design takeoff weight: 620 kilograms
- Maximum mission payload: 160 kilograms
- Standard configuration: Twelve 10-kilogram fire-extinguishing canisters
- Optional configuration: Eight 20-kilogram canisters
- Compatible agents: Water-based agents and ultra-fine dry powder
The aircraft features redundant multirotor propulsion and advanced flight-control algorithms designed to withstand intense thermal updrafts at fire scenes. These systems enable stable hovering and precise payload release in challenging conditions. EHang plans to continue validation work and collaborate with emergency agencies to expand the aircraft’s operational deployment.
EHang shares (EH) rose 9.69% following the announcement. The firefighting application expands the company’s portfolio beyond its established passenger eVTOL services.
Source: EHang Investor Relations – Official Press Release (November 4, 2026)