Idaho drone manufacturer xCraft has announced the launch of its latest VTOL drone, the x2 Geo. The x2 Geo will be offered to professionals as part of an alternative mapping solution, using VTOL technology to preserve battery life and increase flight time.

xCraft’s new drone comes after the successful launch of the xPlusOne, as well as upcoming products the Rogue racing drone and the PhoneDrone Ethos.

Takeoff and Landing………………Vertical

Maximum Flight Time…………….45 Minutes

Speed……………………………………….0-88 km/h (0-55 MPH)

Wind Resistance……………………..Up to 45 km/h (12M/S OR 28 MPH)

Radio link Range…………………….Up to 3 km (1.86 miles)

Max Coverage (Per Flight)………12 km²/3000 Acres                                                                                                                                                                               (305 M/1000 ft Altitude AGL)

Weight (With Camera)…………….1.27 kg (2.8 lbs)

Wingspan…………………………………..84 cm (33 in)

Battery………………………………………..14.8 V, 5400 MAH

Camera (Supplied)……………………Sony DSC-WX500 (18.2 MP)

Material……………………………………….EPO Foam, Carbon and Aluminum

Propulsion…………………………………..3 x Electric, 210 W Brushless DC Motor

Carry Case Dimensions……………..89 x 41 x 33 cm (35 x 16 x 13 in)

Flight Planning Software……………Q GroundControl, AirRails Optional

Image Procession (Optional)……..Cartadrone Data Processing

The X2 Geo is available now for $7,995.

VTOL mapping drone has its roots in reality TV

To fund the company, xCraft launched a successful Kickstarter campaign and then hit something of a jackpot with an appearance on ABC reality show Shark Tank, on which investors vet business pitches and decide whether to make an investment. JD Claridge and Charles Manning of xCraft received a $1.5 million investment from their appearance on the show.