BYD has launched a vehicle-mounted drone-launching system named “Lingyuan”, priced at 16,000 yuan (US$2,197).

Developed in collaboration with DJI, it features a drone hangar mounted on the vehicle’s roof, connecting to the touchscreen interface.

The drone can take off and land at speeds up to 25 km/h, with a maximum follow speed of 54 km/h and an automatic return range of two kilometers. The hangar also recharges the drone while docked.

The package includes a DJI drone, a hangar, and compatible applications for video editing and AI posture recognition.

BYD showcased the system at an event in Shenzhen, launching a version of its Bao 8 SUV equipped with Lingyuan. This follows BYD’s earlier luxury-brand Yangwang drone launcher.

The Lingyuan system is similar to DJI’s Dock 3, but at a much lower price than its US$21,059 starting cost.

Recent BYD developments