Sarla Aviation, a pioneering aerospace startup specializing in electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, has revealed its groundbreaking air taxi prototype, Shunya, at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. With plans to launch in Bangalore by 2028 and expand to Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, and other major cities, the company is poised to revolutionize urban mobility in India.
Shunya: A Technological Marvel in Urban Mobility
The Shunya prototype, designed to accommodate up to six passengers and carry a maximum payload of 680 kg, boasts the highest payload capacity among eVTOLs in the market. Capable of speeds up to 250 km/h and optimized for short distances of 20–30 km, Shunya aims to drastically cut travel times in India’s congested urban centers.
The company plans to price rides competitively, starting at rates comparable to premium cab services, with a long-term vision of matching auto-rickshaw fares. This affordability strategy seeks to make urban air mobility accessible to a broader audience.
Vision for a Cleaner, Connected Future
“Shunya is more than a technological achievement; it represents our mission to redefine urban mobility in India,” said Adrian Schmidt, Co-Founder and CEO of Sarla Aviation. “By tackling challenges like traffic congestion and pollution, we aim to unlock India’s economic potential and contribute to a cleaner, more connected future. Rooted in the ideals of Atma Nirbhar Bharat, we are committed to creating homegrown, world-class solutions that place India at the forefront of aviation innovation.”
Strong Backing for Innovation
Founded in October 2023 by Adrian Schmidt, Rakesh Gaonkar, and Shivam Chauhan, Sarla Aviation recently secured $10 million in Series A1 funding. The round was led by Accel, with participation from notable angel investors, including Flipkart co-founder Binny Bansal and Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath. The funding will accelerate the development of eVTOL technology and establish a cutting-edge research and development center.
Beyond Passenger Mobility
In addition to air taxis, Sarla Aviation plans to launch a free-of-cost air ambulance service, addressing critical healthcare needs in urban areas with rapid medical response capabilities.
A Bold Step Toward Sustainable Urban Transport
Shunya embodies Sarla Aviation’s vision to transform urban transportation through innovative, sustainable, and efficient solutions. As the company prepares to make its mark, it is setting a new benchmark for India’s aerospace industry and paving the way for a future where air taxis become a common sight in the skies above India’s cities.
