HRC Group's LEU100 drone debuts at CIIE, targeting China's low-altitude mobility sector

HRC Group, a world-leading provider of composite-material solutions, is optimistic about China's low-altitude mobility sector, as its unmanned LEU100 drone made its world debut on Wednesday at the eighth China International Import Expo in Shanghai.

The LEU100 has a maximum takeoff weight of 140 kg, a maximum range of 200 km, and a maximum payload capacity of 55 kg. As an electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, it is expected to find extensive applications across multiple scenarios including logistics transportation, medical rescue, emergency disaster relief and remote sensing exploration, according to the company.

Specializing in carbon-fiber composites, the group was deeply involved in the drone's structural design and manufacturing.

"Carbon fiber composite materials are essential to make such drones, as they feature light weight, high strength and high modulus. The lighter its structure is, the more payload it can carry and the less energy consumption it costs," said Ge Yihong, vice-president and chief financial officer of HRC Group, during the expo.

Ge noted that the group began exploring the use of carbon-fiber composites as a core structural material in automobiles a decade ago. Over the past three years, the company's sales have grown exponentially each year. Looking ahead, the group believes greater business potential lies in China's low-altitude mobility sector.

"The unmanned drones cost much less yet have much more flexibility. Composite materials account for over 50 percent of the total materials used in the aviation sector, and this proportion is even higher for low-altitude aircraft. China is taking the lead in the low-altitude economy, where we see vast market potential and expect more diverse products to emerge," said Ge.

In addition to the drone, the company is also showcasing various application of carbon fiber and composite materials in auto and commercial aircraft components.

Attending the CIIE for the sixth consecutive year, the longstanding exhibitor continued to speak highly of the annual expo.

"The biggest value of the CIIE is that it is a diverse and international platform, which aligns exactly with the auto and aerospace sectors that we are involved in, as the market, brand and supply chain in such industries are all international," said Ge.

He added that the platform not only enables them to showcase their products, but also demonstrates China's commitment to openness, which will further facilitate the growth of these industries.