Shenzhen-based civil UAV maker producing both multi-rotor (EVO) and tilt-rotor eVTOL (Dragonfish) drones for enterprise and consumer use.
Autel Robotics Co., Ltd. is a Chinese civil unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) company engaged in the research, design, manufacturing, and sale of drone products. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Shenzhen, Autel is among the few companies worldwide to have mastered both multi-rotor and tilt-rotor eVTOL UAV platforms, and it holds full-stack core technologies including flight control, communication and networking, gimbal stabilization, long-endurance performance, ultra-high-definition imaging, and autonomous operation.
The company's product lines span multi-rotor enterprise and consumer drones (the EVO series, including EVO Max, EVO II Enterprise, EVO Lite, and EVO Nano), tilt-rotor fixed-wing eVTOL aircraft (the Dragonfish series), drone docks/nests, and supporting hardware and software such as the Autel SkyCommand Center and Autel Mapper. Increasingly focused on industry applications and embodied intelligent robots, Autel applies AI and foundation-model technologies to position itself in air-ground collaboration, serving security, emergency response, inspection, surveying, and mapping sectors. Autel Robotics was formerly a subsidiary of Autel Intelligent Technology and operates a global presence with overseas subsidiaries in the United States, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, the UAE, Singapore, and Vietnam, plus after-sales service centers across multiple countries. By March 2026 the company reported 1,801 authorized patents and 3,151 patent applications, ranking among the top in the global drone industry. Its US customer service is based in Bothell, Washington. The company has won design recognitions including Red Dot and iF Design Awards for its EVO-series drones.
Primary type & automation activities this supplier delivers:
Flagship enterprise multi-rotor drone with thermal/wide/zoom imaging and autonomous mission capability.
Tilt-rotor fixed-wing VTOL UAV combining vertical takeoff with long-endurance fixed-wing flight.
Automated drone dock enabling remote, unattended deployment, charging, and operation of EVO drones.
Contact Autel Robotics
WEBSITE
https://www.autelrobotics.com/PHONE
+1 844 692 8835HEADQUARTERS
United States
Company Facts
Founded
2014
Primary Role
Manufacturer
Company Size
-
Primary Region
Asia-Pacific
Annual Sales
-
Funding Stage
Subsidiary / Acquired
Funding Total
-
DJI has long been the leading manufacturer in the commercial drone market, but U.S. policy changes are shifting the landscape. In December 2025, the Federal Communications Commission added foreign-produced drones to its Covered List, impacting new model authorizations while allowing previously approved drones to remain unaffected. This policy aims to diversify the domestic supply chain amidst growing concerns over foreign technology. A recent patent analysis by LexisNexis reveals that while China leads in the number of drone patents, the strength of these patents is becoming more evenly distributed globally. The analysis indicates a shift from a single dominant platform to a more diverse ecosystem of specialized drone solutions. By 2024, China held 44% of worldwide drone-related patent families, while the U.S. accounted for 17%, highlighting the evolving competitive dynamics in the industry. Looking ahead, the competition in drone innovation is intensifying, with LexisNexis noting that the U.S. and China are nearly tied in Patent Asset Value for drone-related patents. The next generation of drone startups is poised to drive innovation, and the countries that excel in this race will shape the future of aerial technology. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Dronelife.com Oct 01, 2026 DJI Drone News Drone News Feeds Feature 1 News andurilJapanese eVTOL developer SkyDrive has entered into a partnership with South Korea’s Verty to facilitate commercial Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) operations in South Korea. The collaboration includes a memorandum of understanding focused on the introduction of SkyDrive’s three-seat SD-05 aircraft, with a target for commercial deployment by 2028. This partnership is significant as it marks SkyDrive's expansion into international markets, particularly in South Korea, where Verty aims to become the first operator to secure an Air Operator Certificate for eVTOL operations. The companies will explore flight safety, infrastructure requirements, and potential routes, with initial concepts including tourism and regional transportation. Looking ahead, the feasibility study will assess how the SD-05 can enhance tourism and regional transport in South Korea’s evolving AAM market. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Dronelife.com Sep 17, 2026 Drone News Drone News Feeds Drones in the News eVTOL News VTOLIMTS 2026 opens in Chicago with 1,788 exhibitors and record H1 machine tool orders. What the USMTO data says about automation, and the booths to see.
ByRobotToday Reporter Sep 14, 2026Elroy Air has successfully completed its first fully autonomous, uncrewed flights of the Chaparral aircraft under the FAA’s eVTOL Integration Pilot Program. This milestone marks a significant advancement for commercial heavy-cargo drone operations in the United States. The Chaparral, designed to transport over 500 pounds of cargo for distances up to 450 miles, showcases the potential for autonomous drones in logistics, particularly in remote areas. The week-long flight campaign took place at Houma-Terrebonne Airport in Louisiana, demonstrating the aircraft's capabilities under air traffic control oversight. Looking ahead, Elroy Air aims to establish a framework for future commercial autonomous cargo operations. With a strong demand pipeline exceeding 1,400 aircraft and potential revenue exceeding $5 billion, the company is poised to play a crucial role in transforming logistics and aviation sectors.
Dronedj.com Sep 08, 2026 NewsElroy Air, a US drone startup, has successfully conducted its first autonomous, uncrewed flights of the Chaparral hybrid-electric aircraft under the eVTOL Integration Pilot Program in Louisiana. These flights focused on transporting various cargo types, including medical supplies and industrial equipment, showcasing the aircraft's capabilities. This development is significant as it marks a step towards integrating Advanced Air Mobility aircraft into US airspace, enhancing logistics infrastructure and delivery options nationwide. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) emphasized the importance of these test flights in shaping aviation policy and supporting commercialization efforts. Looking ahead, Elroy Air's successful tests will inform its strategy for deploying autonomous heavy-cargo aircraft at scale. The Chaparral's unique features, such as interchangeable cargo pods and VTOL capabilities, position it for diverse applications, including disaster relief and maritime missions. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
InterestingEngineering.com Sep 04, 2026 TransportationKen Karklin has stepped down as CEO of Pivotal, a flying car company backed by Larry Page, after over four years in the role. His departure was announced in a press release, where Pivotal stated he is 'pursuing new endeavors.' Karklin emphasized the company's progress in the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) sector, highlighting the transition from prototypes to operational aircraft. Karklin's exit is significant as it follows Pivotal's launch of its first lightweight electric personal aircraft, Helix, which began sales two years ago. The Helix, priced at approximately $200,000, does not require a pilot's license to operate. Interim CEO Mike Ross acknowledged Karklin's contributions and expressed confidence in maintaining the company's focus on safety and engineering during this transition. Looking ahead, Pivotal continues to develop its BlackFly aircraft, which has recently been utilized in emergency response scenarios. The company is also part of the FAA's eVTOL Integration Pilot Program, which aims to enhance testing of eVTOL aircraft across the United States. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
TechCrunch Sep 01, 2026 Transportation eVTOL pivotal149 of the 248 classified WRC 2026 exhibitors build finished robots. 93 build humanoid or legged machines. The audited humanoid sales number is one unit.
ByThomas Siew Aug 27, 2026We classified 248 WRC 2026 exhibitors with the RobotToday taxonomy. Motion & Actuation leads at 75 companies, Humanoid at 72, and compute stays thin at 12. (Modified 2026-08-27)
ByThomas Siew Aug 26, 2026SkyDrive Inc. has progressed its joint feasibility study in India to the route-evaluation phase as of August 25, 2026. This initiative, in collaboration with Air India and Suzuki Motor Corporation, focuses on medical air logistics, identifying radioisotope transport, organ transport, and airport parts logistics as key use cases. The significance of this study lies in addressing the urgent need for efficient medical logistics in India, where rapid urban growth has led to severe traffic congestion. This congestion hampers timely medical shipments and complicates aircraft maintenance, prompting the partners to explore eVTOL solutions to alleviate these transport challenges. Looking ahead, the evaluation will assess routes for emergency transport of radioactive isotopes and organ transport across the Delhi NCR, with the potential to significantly reduce delivery times. Future operations will require coordination with Indian government and regulatory authorities to ensure compliance and safety in air logistics operations.
Dronelife.com Aug 25, 2026 Advanced Air Mobility Drone News Drone News Feeds India Drone Industry India Drone News Indian Drone TechnologyEvery US restriction on Chinese humanoid robots — NDAA Sec. 163, GUARD Act, the 1260H list — plus the supply-chain math and a 4-tier map of decoupling.
BySarah Bakery Jul 25, 2026This week in robotics: Hyundai takes full ownership of Boston Dynamics, Xpeng targets 1,000 Iron humanoids a month, LimX Dynamics raises $200M pre-IPO, and Agility opens a Silicon Valley physical-AI hub. July 13–17, 2026.
ByKelly Stone Jul 18, 2026A comprehensive industry analysis of Physical AI — covering Embodied AI, Field AI, Factory AI, VLM, World Model, VLA, and the VLA vs WAM architecture debate. Includes 20+ companies, 28 references, and the RobotToday Physical AI Landscape diagram. July 2026.
ByLeona Tang Jul 10, 2026At Automate 2026 in Chicago, Amprius Technologies exhibited its SiCore SA88 silicon-anode pouch cell — 358 Wh/kg, 750 Wh/L — as a finalist in the Components, Hardware & Enabling Technologies category. Analysis of implications for AMR, UAV, and aerial mobility platforms.
ByRobotToday Reporter Jun 29, 2026A newly introduced bill in Congress, the Prohibiting Adversarial Patents Act of 2026 (PAPA), aims to address concerns over certain foreign technology companies by making specific patents unenforceable while retaining ownership rights. Sponsored by Rep. Scott Fitzgerald (R-WI), the legislation seeks to expand U.S. scrutiny into the realm of intellectual property rights, particularly impacting the drone industry. The bill reflects growing apprehension regarding the influence of foreign entities on American innovation and aims to safeguard domestic technological advancements. If passed, PAPA could significantly alter the landscape of patent enforcement, particularly for companies operating within the drone sector.
Dronelife.com Jun 12, 2026 Drone Manufacturing Drone News Drone News Feeds Drones in the News News US GovernmentComprehensive analysis of Vietnam's robotics industry: market size, industrial policy, key companies (Vingroup, Apicoo, Phenikaa-X), geopolitical dynamics, and 2030 growth opportunities.
ByKelly Stone Jun 09, 2026Autel Robotics, a drone manufacturer, has formally challenged the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) recent decision to include its products on the agency's Covered List. In a detailed filing, Autel criticized the FCC for relying on broad assumptions rather than conducting a thorough, company-specific analysis. The company aims to distance itself from competitor DJI, emphasizing its commitment to compliance and transparency. This legal push comes as Autel seeks to protect its reputation and market position amid increasing scrutiny of drone manufacturers.
Dronelife.com May 19, 2026 DJI Drone Manufacturing Drone News Drone News Feeds Feature 1 NewsAutel Robotics has expressed concerns regarding the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) regulatory approach, arguing that the agency is unjustly categorizing its drones alongside those of competitor DJI. The company contends that there has been no evidence presented by regulators to suggest that Autel's products pose any security risks. This statement highlights ongoing tensions within the drone industry, particularly as regulatory scrutiny intensifies in response to national security concerns. Autel's claims come amid a broader discussion about the implications of drone technology and the need for fair treatment among manufacturers.
Dronedj.com May 19, 2026 NewsConcerns regarding the national security implications of drones manufactured by DJI and Autel Robotics have been raised, prompting discussions among lawmakers and security experts. Despite these apprehensions, thousands of these drones continue to operate across the United States daily. The ongoing debate centers on the potential risks associated with foreign-made technology and its implications for privacy and safety. Critics argue that if these drones are indeed a significant threat, regulatory measures should be more stringent to prevent their widespread use. However, the persistent presence of these drones in American skies suggests that many users, including hobbyists and commercial operators, do not perceive an immediate danger. The situation highlights the complexities of balancing technological innovation with national security concerns, as stakeholders seek to navigate the implications of drone usage in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Dronedj.com May 12, 2026 NewsRobotics shifted from demos to deployment post-CES 2026, led by China’s humanoid scale, AI robot brains, and accelerating industrial adoption.
ByRobotToday Reporter Feb 07, 2026The SUNNY-T2000 signals a shift in heavy cargo UAVs, showing how two-ton unmanned aircraft are reshaping regional and industrial air logistics.
ByKelly Stone Jan 12, 2026