Zhang Lei's career journey, from R&D to entrepreneurship and eventual transformation, mirrors the evolution of China’s drone industry—from a booming phase to a cooling off and now a shift toward industrial applications. Initially a tech professional, he started in the field of consumer drones, which were primarily used for aerial photography and entertainment. In 2013, as the technology matured, he ventured into entrepreneurship but faced challenges that led to the dissolution of his small team. He eventually returned to a corporate environment before discovering new opportunities in agricultural plant protection.
In 2016, Zhang joined a company focused on industrial drones—those designed for tasks like crop protection, inspection, and security. These drones offer higher commercial value, but their development is still in its early stages. Issues such as scene adaptability, after-sales support, and battery life remain significant hurdles. Industry analysts suggest that while the potential is vast, the technology and market are not yet fully developed. Companies and investors must be patient before seeing real returns.
The popularity of consumer drones surged in 2015, with celebrities using them in public events and media coverage. Prices dropped significantly, making high-quality drones accessible to more people. This period saw an influx of startups, many of which struggled due to lack of core technology or sustainable business models. The market became saturated, leading to a slowdown in growth and a shift in investor focus toward more promising sectors.
By 2016, the consumer drone bubble began to burst, with many companies unable to compete against industry leaders like DJI. Startups without strong technological foundations or sufficient capital found it difficult to survive. Regulatory changes also played a role, as authorities tightened rules to address safety concerns related to “black flying†incidents.
Meanwhile, the industrial drone sector began to gain traction. Companies like Yiwate and others started focusing on specialized applications, such as agriculture, power line inspections, and security. These areas require deeper integration with industry-specific needs, creating stronger customer loyalty and barriers to entry. However, challenges remain, including the need for localized after-sales support and improved endurance and obstacle avoidance capabilities.
Despite these hurdles, the future of industrial drones looks promising. Experts believe that while the sector is still in its early stages, it has the potential to grow rapidly once key technical and market challenges are addressed. Investors are becoming more cautious, preferring long-term value over short-term hype. For companies like Zhang Lei’s, the path forward involves continuous innovation, deep industry knowledge, and a focus on delivering real-world solutions.
Multifunction Cutting Machine
Multifunction Cutting Machine,Cutting Machine Pipe,Plastic Cutting Machine,Metal Cutting Machine
Kunshan Bolun Automation Equipment Co., Ltd , https://www.bolunmachinery.com