Italian eVTOL startup Manta Aircraft has unveiled its ANN 6 hybrid-electric aircraft mock-up to an international audience at the China Airshow in Zhuhai.
The six-seater HeV/STOL aircraft is designed to bridge the gap between urban air mobility and interregional operations.
The unveiling marks an important step for the European startup as it seeks to position itself in China’s Advanced Air Mobility market. With features designed for versatility and long-range operations, the ANN 6 aims to address both urban congestion and accessibility in remote regions.
The ANN 6’s debut in China was met with interest from both local and international attendees. “Many people came to visit the ANN 6, and the impressions were very positive, especially from knowledgeable representatives of different countries,” said Manta Aircraft CEO Lucas Marchesini.
The mock-up allowed attendees to experience the aircraft’s design and performance potential firsthand. The hybrid-electric propulsion system, which combines electric motors with a fuel-based generator, promises over 1,000 kilometers of range in STOL mode and up to 300 kilometers in VTOL operations.
China’s rapidly growing interest in AAM technologies was evident at the airshow, and Marchesini confirmed that discussions with potential operators had already begun. “We hope to release more information in the coming days or weeks about these conversations,” he said.
China’s interest in advanced air mobility reflects its broader strategy to address urban congestion, improve connectivity in less developed regions, and enhance emergency response capabilities. With its mix of densely populated cities and remote rural areas, the country offers an ideal testing ground for hybrid-electric aircraft.
Marchesini estimates that the ANN 6 could be market-ready within three years of signing a partnership agreement, depending on the certification timeline in the target region. The company’s next steps will likely include formalising collaborations with Chinese operators and securing the financial and regulatory support needed to bring the ANN 6 to market.
