China has carried out what it calls the world’s first two-ton electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) cargo delivery to an offshore oil platform.

On Sunday, the unmanned V2000CG CarryAll flew from Shenzhen to a China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) rig, covering 150 kilometres of open water in just 58 minutes. On board were fresh fruit and urgent medical supplies.

From Ship Journeys to Swift Drone Flights

Traditionally, CNOOC platforms have relied on supply ships for deliveries, a round trip that can take more than 10 hours. Helicopters are quicker, but their fuel, maintenance, and rental costs are high.

The CarryAll offers a one-hour transit, reduced costs, and a smoother ride than rotorcraft. Its all-electric design means zero in-flight emissions and fewer weather delays compared to boats.

Cutting-Edge Aircraft with Real-World Uses

Developed by Shanghai-based Autoflight, the V2000CG merges helicopter-like vertical lift with the efficiency of fixed-wing flight. The aircraft, cleared for flight in June 2025, can carry 400 kilograms at around 124 miles per hour and travel up to 124 miles on one charge.

“The flight integrates cutting-edge aviation technology with the real demands of offshore operations,” said Ren Yongyi, logistics coordinator at CNOOC’s Shenzhen branch, in an interview with China Global Television Network (CGTN). Ren described it as a “full-chain” model that unites development, operations, and practical applications, adding that electric drones can bring “lower operating costs, faster response, and the ability to land in confined spaces.”

A Growing Low-Altitude Economy

Shenzhen’s government has been expanding drone use with about 300 logistics routes serving hospitals, factories, and business parks.

The first V2000CG was handed over on 22 July to a buyer in Kunshan, marking China’s first delivery of a fully certified large eVTOL, a step towards commercial aerial cargo and passenger services at scale.

A Global Race for Heavy-Lift Drone Logistics

China’s breakthrough comes amid international advances. Germany’s Wingcopter has logged 130,000 flight-kilometres in Japan and Germany, delivering temperature-sensitive medical goods at speeds of 55 miles per hour, moving around 2,300 kilograms in total.

In the United States, California-based MightyFly recently demonstrated its Cento autonomous cargo drone for the U.S. Air Force. The aircraft autonomously loaded, balanced, and unloaded cargo, aiming for use in military resupply and disaster relief.

Paving the Way for the Future of Cargo

The Shenzhen-to-platform route is set to become a regular service for transporting parts, food, and medical kits. At the same time, the sale of the first certified CarryAll signals the start of large-scale commercial eVTOL operations, offering a faster, cleaner alternative to both ships and helicopters.

Source: https://orbitaltoday.com/2025/08/05/chinas-two-ton-electric-cargo-drone-slashes-offshore-trip-from-10-hours-to-58-minutes/