Supernal has opened its engineering headquarters in Irvine, California, as it expands its mission to develop advanced air mobility (AAM) vehicles.

This is one of three permanent facilities Supernal is opening this year, which include a policy and commercial hub in Washington, D.C., and a primary research and development facility in Fremont, California.

With approximately 105,000 square feet of office space in the Irvine Spectrum development and an 80,000-square-foot satellite test and evaluation site, Supernal currently employs more than 200 people in Irvine and has space to expand to 500.

Supernal’s presence in the market includes its powertrain, airframe, system and safety, test and evaluation, and several core operations teams.

‘Exceptional tech talent’

“The key to realising the potential of Advanced Air Mobility hinges on leveraging exceptional tech talent, making Irvine the prime location for our engineering headquarters,” said Jaiwon Shin, president of Hyundai Motor Group and CEO of Supernal.

“This strategic location enables us to expand our rapidly growing team of industry experts in aerospace, automotive and deep-tech. Together, we are poised to redefine transportation and shape the future of Advanced Air Mobility.”

Established in 2020 as the Urban Air Mobility Division of Hyundai Motor Group, Supernal is developing an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle and the integrated ground-to-air ecosystem to support the emerging AAM industry. As part of HMG, Supernal is working to integrate the automotive giant’s manufacturing technologies, supply chain capabilities and automation into AAM.

Advanced mobility careers

Supernal plans to hire more than 100 employees for its Irvine facilities this year. The company is seeking engineers with experience in flight control, airframe design, structural analysis, electrical and systems integration.

The four-story space also pays homage to Supernal’s aviation industry: Light fixtures throughout resemble clouds to create an ethereal ambiance, while flight paths guide employees throughout the space and the office’s game room features aviation-themed decor and inspiring quotes, adding an element of playfulness and creativity.
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