Ehang Releases Two New Ghostdrone 2.0 Models

EHang created plenty of headlines at CES 2016 back in January, with the unveiling of the company’s personal transport drone, the 184. You might now know it, but the Chinese manufacturer has also had some success with its Ghostdrone series – a smaller consumer drone to rival the likes of DJI, Yuneec, 3DR, and Parrot. Today, EHang launched two new variations of the Ghostdrone 2.0, in an effort to entice consumers that have, until now, been hesitant to enter the world of drones.

So how does EHang plan on attracting newcomers to the drone scene? Well, the release of new Ghostdrone 2.0 models suggests that there are two avenues the company is keen to exploit. The first is virtual reality or, more specifically, applying VR technology to make flying both easier and more immersive. The second is to appeal to people who value the clarity of image they can achieve with a drone. EHang has now made a 4K camera upgrade available.

For those of you unfamiliar with the Ghostdrone 2.0 series, the drone is primarily piloted through the EHang app on a mobile phone. The pilot just has to pair the device with a pocket-sized transmitter called a G-Box. Then, the phone’s internal accelerometer and gyroscope allows the pilot to simply tilt the phone to control the Ghostdrone 2.0. The revamped Ehang Play app also allows for flight planning and a follow me function.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vfg__C4B948

Anyway, back to the two new variations of the EHang Ghostdrone 2.0, and what makes them worth taking seriously in a market crowded with established competitors. First, there is the Ghostdrone Aerial, which now offers a 4K camera upgrade on the previous model. Second, and perhaps most exciting, is the Ghostdrone 2.0 VR. As well as coming with a built-in 4K camera, this model includes a VR headset that allows the pilot to control the camera with head movements. This, combined with the established phone titling controls, means EHang offer a flying experience you’re unlikely to find anywhere else.

“We believe users are intimidated by the complexity of flying their first drone. But with our new VR goggles and 4K cameras, it’s easier and more intuitive than ever to take to the skies,” said Derrick Xiong, CMO of EHang. “These new models bring us one big step closer to our mission of making drone flight an easy, fun and user-friendly experience for everyone. Whether you’re rafting in the Rockies or filming your kid’s sports, the Ghostdrone 2.0 allows you to capture amazing moments with crystal clarity and from a new perspective.”

The Ghostdrone 2.0 Aerial, previously retailing for $599, will now come with a 4k camera and remain at the same price, making it one of the cheapest 4k consumer drones on the market. The VR version, complete with goggles and spherical, built-in 4K camera, will set you back $1,099. More good news: both include a 12-month warranty and 24/7 customer support, so new pilots can learn the ropes with a little less pressure than usual.