UAV base in Hongqiao becomes leader in Shanghai's low-altitude economy

The East China UAV Base in the southward expansion belt of the Hongqiao International Central Business District in Shanghai is emerging as a leader in the city's push for low-altitude economic growth.

Shanghai recently unveiled a development plan for its low-altitude economic industry, outlining a series of ambitious goals. By 2027, the metropolis aims to establish a comprehensive low-altitude industry ecosystem, spanning research, development, manufacturing, certification, and commercial applications. This initiative targets a core industrial scale exceeding 50 billion yuan ($7.08 billion), which would position Shanghai at the global forefront of low-altitude economic innovation.

A crucial driver behind this growth is advanced materials research. The carbon fiber center under Sinopec Shanghai Petrochemical is pioneering cost-effective, high-performance carbon fiber for drone components, leveraging materials seven to nine times stronger yet one-ninth the weight of steel. This breakthrough technology is now on par with international standards and poised to revolutionize drone manufacturing.

At the center of this revolution is the East China UAV Base in Shanghai's Jinshan district, a vibrant hub fostering low-altitude economic development. The 55,000-square-meter park has attracted 36 companies, which have invested 3.33 billion yuan in fields spanning manufacturing, applications, and materials. With eight approved drone logistics routes and advanced infrastructure, the base supports diverse R&D, testing, and operational scenarios.

Shanghai's low-altitude economy is thriving, with East China UAV Base in the southward expansion belt of Hongqiao CBD taking the lead in the industry. [Photo/WeChat ID: gh_9ebb1b46be49]

Companies like Fengyu Shuntu, specializing in logistics drones with payloads of 10-50 kilograms and ranges up to 130 kilometers, are already realizing the potential of this ecosystem. Similarly, Vertaxi's 2-ton MATRIX 1 eVTOL, with a 200 km/h cruise speed and 250 km range, is heralding a new era of urban air mobility.