Andhra University team develops India’s first drone motor

Visakhapatnam:A team of graduates and scholars from Andhra University’s Engineering College has achieved a significant milestone by developing a prototype motor for drones, marking the first of its kind in India.

The group, which formed a startup named Technorama last year, operates under the Andhra University Incubation Council’s A-Hub and is focused on indigenizing drone components, primarily motors, which are essential for drone functionality.

Professor Mallikarjuna Rao, the startup's mentor and head of the electrical engineering department, highlighted the motor's advanced features, including seamless integration with Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs), which enhance safety, control, and responsiveness. The prototype offers high torque for improved maneuverability and lifting capabilities while maximizing power output and minimizing energy consumption, thus extending flight time and overall performance. “A drone fitted with this prototype motor achieved speeds of 55 km/h, making it highly beneficial for emergency situations,” he stated.

The efficiency of the new motor ranges from 92 per cent to 95 per cent, compared to the 85 per cent to 87 per cent efficiency of existing Chinese motors. Professor Rao emphasized the importance of indigenising drone systems for self-sustainability and affordability, aligning with the government’s vision of making India a global drone hub by 2030.

The Indian drone market, currently valued at USD 1.20 billion, is expected to grow to USD 4.87 billion by 2030, fueled by various applications in defense, agriculture, and healthcare.

The Technorama team, which includes T. Neelakanteswara, Rama Jayalakshmi, Dr. Rajesh, and Dr. Gautham, aims to contribute to the national economy and enhance India’s competitiveness in the global drone market, addressing the critical issue of reliance on imported drone components.