by Lu Keyan

Agricultural drones are entering a new phase of innovation with the introduction of lifting capabilities, offering practical solutions for challenging farming tasks. On December 12, DJI showcased its T100 agricultural drone in Zigui County, Hubei Province.

Known for its citrus production, Zigui faces challenges in mechanization due to rugged terrain, which forces farmers to manually transport heavy loads of navel oranges down steep slopes. The T100, priced at 59,999 yuan, can lift up to 85 kilograms, completing tasks in under two minutes that previously required hours of labor. Equipped with laser radar, AI, and AR functions, the drone supports a range of agricultural operations, including spraying, sowing, and lifting.

The lifting function addresses significant agricultural demands, enabling tasks such as transporting materials in mountainous areas, managing large-scale seedling cultivation, and feeding livestock. Advances in lithium battery and power system technology have made it possible for drones to lift heavy objects efficiently without compromising battery life—a capability that earlier drones lacked due to less mature technology.

DJI’s agricultural drones are transforming farming practices, particularly in China, where an aging rural labor force and low automation hinder productivity. In some areas in Xinjiang, Heilongjiang, and Jiangsu, agricultural drones can be used to manage up to 95% of crops for full-process plant protection.

As of October 2024, DJI drones have been utilized across 38% of China’s arable land, with drones involved in managing a significant portion of major food crops like rice and wheat. This year alone, DJI drones serviced 2.5 billion acres, contributing to a market valued at approximately 12.5 billion yuan for aerial plant protection services, according to Shen Xiaojun, head of marketing for DJI Agriculture.

Globally, DJI’s agricultural drones are sold in over 100 countries, with overseas revenue contributing 30% of total sales. Competing with Chinese rival XAG, DJI holds an 80.54% share of China’s plant protection drone market. The company sees substantial growth potential, driven by land consolidation policies and untapped opportunities in forestry, animal husbandry, and fisheries, where drone adoption remains in its early stages. DJI aims to strengthen its market position by fostering sustainable, profitable growth for users and advancing the industry as a whole.