We are delighted to announce the membership of the drone manufacturer CargoTron as the latest member to Drone Logistics Ecosystem (DLE). The company is working on development of a drone platform specifically used in the middle/last mile B2B delivery services. DLE is supporting engagement of other members to collaborate with CargoTron, we are keen to support startups to accelerate faster. CargoTron has revealed the PD250 in April this year, a remotely piloted, one-tonne, hybrid eVTOL that can deliver a 250 kg payload over 600 km. Primary use case of PD250 is B2B express/less than truck load parcel deliveries overcoming constraints in ground transportation and congestion.
Thanks to down-folding wings, it can take-off/land in loading areas, car parks etc. Other use cases include delivery of humanitarian aid, emergency cargo, equipment to offshore/wind farm vertiports plus para-military and military tasks. Customers have identified benefits to transport different volumes and types of cargo such as general B2B supplies, refrigerated medical aid, and maintenance equipment to remote zones not easily accessible and at low cost. Target customers include logistic supply companies, humanitarian aid/emergency supply operators, offshore wind farm operators, coastguards, para-military and military. Unique selling points include smallest safe landing zone, customisable cargo pods, quick changeover of cargo pods on ground, lowest acquisition and operating costs.
“EVTOL cargo drones are slowly overtaking demand from passenger versions. Remotely piloted cargo drones are becoming increasingly popular, both Deloitte and SMG project cargo drones taking a greater share of the eVTOL market from 2025-2030. PD250’s standard cargo-pod is designed to house two half-size Euro-palettes with up to 250 kg payload. In parallel to that PD250 can carry customized cargo-pods to accommodate refrigerated or bulk cargo.” Mr Ross Kelly, CEO of CARGO TRON.
