Road to the future
T3 investigates the mind-blowing technology being inserted in the next generation of automobiles
No need to wait for Amazon’s delivery ’bots to take to the skies. This lot are already airborne…
DJI Phantom 2 Visi on
This quadcopter is a 1.1kg super-spy, capable of capturing 1080p HD video and still photos using its 140-degree field-of-view camera that can be tilted mid-flight, piping its view in real time to the accompanying iPhone app. A 4GB microSD card records the footage and flight time clocks in at 25 minutes, with the GPS-laden autopilot returning it to its take-off point if it loses signal. $1,478, vid eocraft.com.au, out now
SenseFly eBee
This is no remote-controlled toy, but a professional aerial mapping tool that comes in a briefcase and with software to construct topographical and geo-referenced models using data collected by its 16-megapixel camera. The lightweight, flexible foam frame is capable of covering serious distances – up to 10 sq km per charge, with a top speed of 57km/h – and is entirely autonomous, relying on the pre-programmed onboard GPS for directions. $25,000, sensefly.com, out now
SmartPlane
The product of German start-up TobyRich, this is a polypropelene “crash-proof” R/C drone that you control using a stylized cockpit app on your iPhone. It links quickly via Bluetooth – simply open the app and tap your handset against the plane – and will soar for up to half an hour. Don’t stray too far from your manor, though, as Bluetooth range is just 60 metres. $100, microflight.com, out now
Blade 350 QX
With every logistics firm and its dog droning on, the skies are sure to get congested, so avoid collisions with this sensor-assisted number. There’s no built-in camera, but its anti-vibration mount fits GoPro action cams and a Stability Mode promises smooth video. Want to spice up your clips? Switch to Agility mode and perform flips and loops. You’ll manage 15 minutes of aerial acrobatics per charge. from $420, bladehelis.com, out now
ParrotAR Elit e Drone 2.0
An overhaul of one of the first mass-market consumer drones, Parrot’s new Elite Edition has a maximum 12-minute flight time, during which it can shoot 720p video using the integrated camera. Piloting is handled via a dedicated Android or iOS app and built-in flight stabilisation means no judders on your sensitive footage. Now available with desert, jungle or arctic camo for ultimate stealth in Waitrose car parks the world over. $350, ardrone2.parrot.com, out now