India-based startup Airbound has developed a 2.5 kg autonomous hybrid drone that combines vertical takeoff and landing with efficient airplane-style flight. Built with carbon fiber, the aircraft can transport a 1 kg payload over 40 km on a single charge, targeting medical deliveries and last-mile logistics. The project has secured backing from investors associated with Tesla and SpaceX. By optimizing the weight-to-performance ratio, the hybrid design aims to reduce the energy intensity of small-scale cargo transport compared to traditional ground vehicles.
