Changan, one of China’s most prominent automotive giants, has taken a bold step into the future of mobility by revealing a fully functional prototype of its electric-powered flying jetpack at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) Shanghai 2025. This groundbreaking innovation is part of Changan’s wider push into low-altitude aerial transport technologies and demonstrates the company’s ambition to redefine personal mobility.
The Jetpack Prototype: A Glimpse into the Future
At the MWC showcase, the jetpack immediately caught the attention of industry experts, media, and technology enthusiasts. Designed for vertical lift, the electric-powered jetpack can remain airborne for up to 30 minutes and reach altitudes of 1,000 feet, according to the company.
Powered by a triple-turbine electric engine, the jetpack emphasizes safety, balance, and control. Its design includes a central body harness with two extended arms housing dual rotors, giving it a drone-like appearance optimized for individual use. Each rotor arm is equipped with joystick-style controls, offering the pilot an intuitive method for managing flight direction and elevation.
While the specific payload capacity has not been disclosed, the jetpack is clearly geared toward personal transportation. It marks a shift from mere concept displays to a potentially viable commuting option—especially in urban environments grappling with traffic congestion.
Changan Confirms Active Development and Testing
In an exclusive conversation with ProPakistani, a Changan spokesperson confirmed that the prototype is currently undergoing active testing, with multiple models in development. “This is not a one-off gimmick,” the spokesperson emphasized. “Changan is committed to becoming a global pioneer in low-altitude travel.”
According to the representative, real-world testing is focused on stability, energy efficiency, and flight safety under various conditions. The ultimate goal is to create a commercially viable personal aerial transport system that is efficient, secure, and eco-friendly.
Changan’s Massive Investment in Aerial Mobility
The unveiling of the jetpack is just one piece of Changan’s larger strategic investment in future mobility. In December 2024, the company entered into a partnership with eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) experts to accelerate its development in aerial transportation. At that time, Chairman Zhu Huarong announced an initial five-year investment of $2.7 billion into the sector.
Now, Changan plans to more than quadruple that investment—committing a staggering $13.9 billion over the next decade. This funding will support not only jetpack development but also integrated mobility solutions that span land, sea, air, and even robotics.
These efforts reflect Changan’s goal of becoming a holistic mobility provider rather than just a car manufacturer. The company is exploring a future where aerial transport complements ground vehicles, creating interconnected smart cities with seamless multimodal movement.
Building on Earlier Innovations
Before unveiling this cutting-edge jetpack, Changan had already introduced three early flying vehicle concepts that resembled oversized drones. Although those models had limited endurance and altitude range, they served as essential testbeds for propulsion, control algorithms, and onboard safety systems.
These experimental platforms laid the groundwork for the current jetpack, offering crucial data that has been incorporated into its design and engineering.
What’s Next for Changan’s Jetpack?
While Changan has not revealed when the jetpack might be available commercially, insiders suggest the next steps involve regulatory approval, mass testing, and the refinement of energy efficiency and control mechanisms.
With air traffic laws and personal flight regulations still evolving, especially in densely populated countries like China, the road to mass adoption could be long. Nevertheless, industry watchers agree that Changan’s entry into the aerial mobility space will likely trigger a wave of innovation among competitors.
Changan is expected to release more details—including pilot training requirements, safety certifications, and market rollout plans—later this year.
A Bold Leap Toward the Skies
Changan’s reveal at MWC Shanghai 2025 is not just a display of technical prowess—it is a bold declaration of intent. The jetpack represents a future where flying to work or navigating crowded cityscapes by air may no longer be science fiction. It positions Changan as a key player in the race toward smart, sustainable, and multidimensional transportation solutions.
As other automakers continue focusing on electric and autonomous ground vehicles, Changan’s eyes are clearly set on the skies.
