What’s new: China’s SZ DJI Technology Co., the world’s biggest consumer drone maker, debuted its first cargo-carrying device Thursday in a foray into the burgeoning delivery drone market.
The new device, the FlyCart 30, has the capacity to carry as much as 30 kilograms of goods as far as 16 kilometers. The drone can deliver by carrying a standard-sized cargo box or by using a winch-based, cable drop system.
With a price tag of 125,000 yuan ($17,146), the device can be used for cargo transportation in mountainous, coastal and island scenarios, DJI said.
The context: The launch of the FlyCart 30 marks DJI’s entry into the delivery drone market, an emerging business as global retail and tech giants seek new logistics solutions. In the U.S., Amazon, Walmart, UPS and Google parent Alphabet have been testing delivery by drones over the past few years.
Phoenix Wings, a drone unit of China’s logistics giant SF Express Co. Ltd., in May launched its cargo drone model.
“We are optimistic about the prospects of aerial transport and hope to solve complex terrain and last-mile transportation challenges for the industry,” said Zhang Xiaonan, strategic director of DJI. The company’s products focus on applications in industries including image capturing, surveying, agriculture, security and energy.
Cargo drones are a nascent field with various potential applications, but the market potential remains uncertain. An industry expert said the FlyCart 30 is an initial trial and DJI could expand its product range if market feedback is favorable.
Contact reporter Han Wei (weihan@caixin.com) and editor Bob Simison (bob.simison@caixin.com)
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