BYD, a global leader in electric vehicles, is taking innovation to new heights—literally. The company has introduced the Ling Yuan system, an integrated solution that adds a DJI drone to the roof of its cars, enhancing off-road navigation, journey documentation, and adventure experiences. This groundbreaking feature will be available on select BYD SUVs, making them the first cars in the world to come with an inbuilt, launch-ready drone.
BYD Ling Yuan System: What is It?
The Ling Yuan system is a roof-mounted drone docking station that comes equipped with a DJI Air 3S drone. It allows drivers to launch, control, and land the drone directly from the car’s infotainment system. The docking station features concealed twin doors that automatically open for takeoff and landing.
Key Features of the BYD Drone System:
- 4K DJI Drone: Equipped with dual cameras (main + telephoto) and LiDAR sensors, the drone can record at 4K 120 fps for high-quality footage.
- In-Motion Launch & Tracking: The drone can take off while the car is moving at speeds up to 25 km/h and track the vehicle at speeds up to 54 km/h.
- Infotainment System Integration: Users can control the drone, set flight paths, and monitor aerial views directly through the car’s touchscreen.
- Automatic Charging: The docking station charges the drone when it is not in use, ensuring it’s always ready for takeoff.
Why Would You Need a Drone in a Car?
At first glance, a drone-equipped car might seem like a luxury, but BYD has practical applications in mind:
- Off-Road Navigation & Obstacle Avoidance The Ling Yuan drone can scan trails, detect obstacles, and assist in route planning—especially useful for off-roaders and overlanders.
- Desert and Remote Terrain Assistance In environments where visibility is limited, such as deserts or dense forests, the drone provides an aerial perspective to help drivers navigate safely.
- Journey Documentation & Content Creation For those who love road trips, travel vlogs, or adventure content, the drone offers cinematic aerial shots that no traditional camera setup can match.
Which BYD Cars Will Get the DJI Drone?
The Ling Yuan system will first be available on these BYD SUVs and luxury models:
Pricing & Availability
BYD has priced the Ling Yuan system at CNY 16,000 (approximately ₹1.9 lakh). This price includes the DJI Air 3S drone and the roof-mounted docking station. The system is currently being demonstrated on BYD’s premium SUVs, but a wider rollout could follow.
Final Thoughts
With the Ling Yuan system, BYD is pushing the boundaries of what an electric vehicle can offer. From enhanced safety and navigation to capturing breathtaking aerial footage, this drone system transforms the driving experience. While currently limited to high-end models, it’s only a matter of time before drone-integrated vehicles become a mainstream reality.
