DJI's unreleased EV50 VTOL cargo drone flew at 8,861 meters above Mount Everest, setting a world record for the highest altitude achieved by an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) drone in public testing. This achievement demonstrates the feasibility of using VTOL cargo drones for high-altitude logistics and scientific research in extreme environments, potentially transforming how supplies are delivered to remote mountainous regions. Over a 12-day mission, the EV50 completed 32 takeoffs and landings, climbed continuously for 3,730 meters, and still had 30% battery remaining on return. It carried ozone-measuring equipment for Peking University researchers.
Background
The EV50 is a composite-wing VTOL drone that can take off and land vertically like a multirotor, then transition to fixed-wing flight for efficient long-range cruising. This hybrid design combines the flexibility of vertical operations with the endurance of fixed-wing aircraft, making it suitable for missions requiring both precision hover and distance.