The Consumer Drone Arms Race Continues

Autel robotics announced their newest evolution in the Evo Drone series last Monday, bringing to market more weight-conscious offerings in the Evo Lite and Evo Nano. This could be a shot across the bow for industry favorites from competitor DJI, aimed at their Air 2S and Mini 2 drones. 

The carbon-legged Evo Lite weighs a scant 1.8 pounds (820g) and offers a 1” CMOS sensor and 4-axis gimbal for its improved camera. Autel notes enhanced night photography using the adjustable aperture and moonlight algorithms, good for 50mp photos and 6K video at 30 frames per second. The Evo Lite enjoys similar battery life to its Evo II and Pro stablemates, an estimated 40 minutes of flight time. 

The packable Evo Nano weighs an even lighter 0.55 lbs (249g) yet brings a 1/2” CMOS sensor capable of 48mp photos. Integrated autofocus and HDR modes allow for rapid, detailed photos and sharp 4k video at 30 fps. The flyweight size still manages a lively 28 minutes of flight and a first-in-its-class obstacle avoidance system usually reserved for larger, heavier drones. 

Both models leverage Autel’s suite of apps and hardware for content creation, sharing, and direction on the fly. With the SkyLink system, users enjoy a transmission range of 6.2 miles and constant 2.7k/30fps HD video link with better signal retention than past models. For those solo operators looking for the perfect tracking shot, Skyportrait software allows for dynamic subject following for vehicles, people, or animals in motion. Pricing and retail availability to be announced.

FMI: www.autelenterprise.com, www.auteldrones.com