Hyundai Air Taxi Startup Supernal Moves HQ to California

Supernal Relocates Headquarters to California, Requests Employee Transfers

Hyundai’s electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) venture, Supernal, is transitioning its primary global headquarters. The company is moving operations from Washington, D.C. to Irvine, California.

Approximately 35 to 40 employees, representing around 5% of Supernal’s total workforce, are being asked to relocate alongside the headquarters. The precise number of personnel remaining in the D.C. location has not been disclosed.

Recent Expansion and Strategic Shift

This relocation occurs just over a year following the opening of Supernal’s 28,000-square-foot office in Washington, D.C. The company invested significantly in creating a workspace designed for employee well-being and comfort.

Concurrently with the D.C. opening, Supernal also established an “engineering headquarters” in Irvine and a dedicated “R&D headquarters” in Fremont, California.

Rationale for the Move

According to a statement provided to TechCrunch by Jaiwon Shin, president of Hyundai Motor Group and CEO of Supernal, the decision to relocate was driven by a desire to improve teamwork and streamline communication between different departments.

The Washington, D.C. office will continue to function as a key center for policy and regulatory affairs. Shin affirmed that this change will not impact Supernal’s planned launch of an eVTOL service in 2028.

Supernal’s Growth and the eVTOL Landscape

Hyundai initiated work on eVTOL technology several years ago. In December 2021, the company formally separated its urban air mobility division, creating Supernal as an independent entity.

Since its inception, Supernal has expanded to encompass approximately 700 employees.

Industry Challenges and Competition

The eVTOL sector remains dynamic and competitive. Several companies are striving to transform the concept of “flying taxis” into a viable commercial reality.

Recent challenges within the industry include Volocopter’s financial difficulties and the closure of Lilium. Conversely, Toyota has recently increased its investment in Joby Aviation, anticipating a commercial launch in 2025.

Here's a summary of the current state:

• Supernal is moving its HQ to Irvine, CA.
• Around 35-40 employees will relocate.
• The D.C. office will focus on policy and regulation.
• The 2028 launch target remains unchanged.