Upgraded heavy-duty drone expands usage scenario

By Chen Si.

A drone maker in Yiling District has launched a new model capable of lifting up to 200 kilograms, expanding its potential applications.

The XD-420 heavy-duty unmanned aerial vehicle, developed by Yi'an Technology (Hubei) Co., Ltd in Yichang City, features a payload capacity that has doubled compared to its predecessor.

The XD-420 drone. Photo by Han Shuanghui

“This drone adopts a unique 8-axis 16-blade rotor layout and introduces a dual-blade structure design, which has brought about a qualitative leap in power efficiency, flight stability, and load-bearing capacity,” said Xiu Yu, technical director of Yi'an Technology.

Equipped with an advanced flight control system, GPS positioning module, and a dual-power supply system, the drone can stabilize itself during air turbulence, enhance flight performance, and withstand strong winds up to level eight gale (62 to 74 km/h or 34 to 40 knots).

The XD-420 drone. Photo by Han Shuanghui

The new model's body is made from carbon fiber and aviation aluminum, reducing weight by 20 percent while increasing strength by 50 percent.

Its versatile applications include logistics, emergency rescue, and industrial lifting.

Mass production of the new model has begun, and it is now available for sale. “As soon as the new model drone was launched, we received many orders,” said Dai Xiaocheng, head of Yi'an Technology.

Liu Yiming and Han Shuanghui also contributed to this story.