BYD & DJI launched first-of-a-kind vehicle-mounted drone system
BYD teamed up with DJI to launch the first-of-a-kind vehicle-mounted drone station. The first car to adopt this system is the Fang Cheng Bao Bao 8 off-roader with a starting price of 395,800 yuan (54,330 USD). Later, more BYD cars will also get this technology.
BYD previously applied for the sales license of a few models with a drone dock station on the roof. They include Yangwang U8, Fang Cheng Bao Bao 5, Bao 8, Titanium 3 (Tai 3), Denza N9, BYD Tang L, and BYD Sealion 07 DM-i. However, the specs and functions of those vehicle-mounted drone systems weren’t disclosed. Now, the company officially launched this drone system.
More about BYD & DJI drone system
The main part of the vehicle-mounted drone station is a so-called hangar on the roof. It looks like a square with sleek edges, an area of 0.29 square meters, and a height of 215 mm. This element has two doors and three sensors for positioning.
Thanks to those elements the system supports dynamic takeoff and landing at speeds of up to 25 km/h. The drone can follow the vehicle at a maximum speed of 54 km/h. It can automatically return to the “hangar” to charge a battery within 2 km. It charges from 20 to 80% in 30 minutes. This drone provides a vertical field of view, allowing tracking vehicle’s movements.
Other functions of the drone include the AI software, and image & music editing software. The drone can be controlled with the Ling Yuan App. According to BYD representatives, this system aims to make cars more fun to drive.
The BYD & DJI drone station will be available for all BYD brands for 16,000 yuan (2,200 USD). BYD has already launched the FCB Bao 8 crossover equipped with this system. Its price range is 395,800 – 423,800 yuan (54,330 – 58,175 USD). This off-roader boasts dimensions of 5195/1994/1875 mm with a wheelbase of 2920 mm. It offers a ground clearance of up to 310 mm, and the DMO plug-in hybrid powertrain for 550 kW (737 hp).
Another vehicle equipped with a drone system is the Yangwang U8 off-road SUV with a price of 1,096,000 yuan (150K USD). Its dimensions are 5319/2050/1930 mm with a wheelbase of 3050 mm. The ground clearance reaches 285 mm thanks to the hydraulic suspension system. The powertrain of the YangWang U8 comprises four e-motors with a combined peak power of 880 kW (1,180 hp) and a peak torque of 1,280 Nm.
Specs, photos & Sales
