The Autel Evo drone, a significant player in the commercial drone market, has recently garnered attention for its “Made in USA” EVO II Dual Bundles. This shift in manufacturing location reflects a broader trend in the drone industry, where American-made products are increasingly valued. This article delves into the details of Autel’s manufacturing process, highlighting the significance of the EVO II Dual Bundles and the importance of “Made in America” for the drone industry.
Autel EVO II: A Compelling Competitor
The Autel EVO II has emerged as a strong competitor in the commercial drone space, especially within the public safety sector. Known for its robust features, ease of use, weather resistance, and competitive pricing, the EVO II offers a compelling package. Strategic partnerships, such as the collaboration with drone mapping software provider Pix4D, further enhance the EVO II’s appeal by providing integrated solutions for public safety agencies.
Clarifying Manufacturing Origins: The EVO II Dual Bundle
While Autel’s airframe production traditionally took place in Shenzhen, China, a global hub for drone manufacturing, the company maintains significant operations and management in the U.S. The recent announcement of the “Made in USA” EVO II Dual Bundle signifies a move towards greater transparency in manufacturing and sourcing. This initiative clarifies which components are produced overseas and which are manufactured domestically.
The EVO II Dual Bundle combines an airframe from China, IR/thermal cameras from FLIR Systems in the USA, and Sony image sensors from Japan. The final assembly process is completed in Bothell, Washington, with American labor. This hybrid approach reflects the global nature of technology manufacturing while emphasizing Autel’s commitment to U.S.-based operations.
Autel EVO II Dual Bundle Assembly
Autel emphasizes that this change in manufacturing is effective immediately and does not affect the shipment of existing stock. CEO Gary DeLuca states that the company has been making ongoing adjustments to the product line to meet customer demands.
Furthermore, Autel sources most bundle components from U.S. manufacturers like FoxFury, GPC, and TacSwan. The software and other crucial elements are primarily from domestic and NATO suppliers. Autel is actively transitioning its production towards a “Made in USA” focus, engaging consultants to help identify resources and processes to achieve this goal.
The Significance of “Made in USA” in the Drone Industry
Recent government scrutiny of Chinese-manufactured technology, particularly concerning security, has heightened the importance of product origin for many U.S. agencies. Public safety organizations often prefer American-made products to address data security concerns and build stakeholder trust.
John Kuch, Autel’s Public Safety/North American Enterprise Sales Manager, underscores the importance of “Made in America” for Autel Enterprise Robotics. The company aims to provide an airframe that public safety and federal agencies can confidently utilize, ensuring end-to-end data security.
The “Made in USA” EVO II Dual Bundle represents Autel’s commitment to transparency and its dedication to meeting the evolving needs of the U.S. drone market. This shift underscores a significant industry trend and positions Autel as a key player in the growing demand for domestically produced drone technology.
