GDU Technology Co, based in the Wuhan East Lake High-tech Development Zone (also known as Optics Valley of China, or OVC), unveiled its K02 automatic battery swap hangar in May. The hangar features a compact footprint of just one square meter and high-speed autonomous battery swapping capabilities.

The automatic drone battery swap hangar. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

"In addition to automated battery swapping, this product enables drones to take off and land freely between different hangars, maximizing autonomous flight efficiency," explained Lei Zhen, marketing director of GDU Technology Co.

This development aligns with Wuhan's prominent position in the national low-altitude economy, as the city ranks among the top 10 nationwide in R&D, manufacturing and marketing, according to the 2024 Urban Low-Altitude Economy "Chains Power" Index Report.

Drones have become a ubiquitous sight in OVC's skies, with 634 drone flights logged during the recent May Day holiday alone, clocking in over 211 hours of flight time.

The drone is in operation. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

In October, the second phase of the OVC's low-altitude shared drone application demonstration zone is slated for completion. It will incorporate 186 drones of various types and 128 automatic hangars, covering a low-altitude aerial space of 518 square kilometers and boasting over 2,000 planned flight routes.

Moving forward, GDU Technology Co plans to expand its offerings beyond battery swapping to encompass drone experiences, smart cultural tourism, and emergency public services, enriching the diversity of applications for this burgeoning technology.