At IDEX 2025, Shenzhen-based Chinese company V-UAV introduced the EV390, also known as the Flashman EV390, a fully electric vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) designed for long-endurance missions.
The UAV features a modular structure, enabling disassembly into six parts for storage in two flight cases. The fuselage case measures 158x66x76 cm, while the tail components are stored in a separate 96x55x65 cm case. The aircraft is built using carbon fiber and glass fiber, with a wingspan of 3,914 mm, a length of 1,899 mm, and a height of 750 mm.
The UAV operates on four 6S 30,000mAh lithium-ion batteries, delivering a maximum flight time of 3.5 hours without a payload. When carrying its full payload of 10 kg, flight endurance is reduced to approximately 1.5 hours. The battery system supports up to 600 recharge cycles and is recharged using the UP600+ charger, which has two 600W channels for simultaneous charging of two batteries in under an hour. The UAV has a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 35 kg, a top speed of 37 m/s (130 km/h), and a cruising speed of 23 m/s (83 km/h). It climbs at 4 m/s, descends at 5 m/s, and operates up to an altitude of 4,500 meters AMSL. It is capable of operating in wind speeds of up to 12 m/s.
Designed for rapid deployment, the EV390 can be assembled in under two minutes using quick connectors. It operates with the VTX30 ground control station, which provides long-range data and video transmission. The UAV uses an open-source autopilot system and supports multiple flight controllers, including the V-UAV V7 Pro, CUAV V7+, and Cube Orange+. It has automated functions such as program control, 3D coordinate autonomous flight, target tracking, emergency return, and fixed-point circling. It can also incorporate a “Follow-me” function, which enables autonomous tracking and mission planning with a high-precision GPS module.
The EV390’s payload bay accommodates various mission requirements. It supports a maximum payload of 10 kg and is compatible with multiple sensor options. These include A30TR-50 or U30TIRM-HD cameras for border patrol and inspection, A0305 3D oblique cameras or GS-100C LiDAR sensors for mapping and surveys, and a drop box system for search and rescue or package delivery. The UAV is rated with an IP54 protection grade and operates in temperatures ranging from -20°C to 60°C. It has an operational range of up to 150 km. The system is delivered with two flight cases for transport.
Fully electric VTOL (eVTOL) drones use electric propulsion, minimizing moving parts and lowering maintenance needs compared to internal combustion-powered aircraft. Their vertical takeoff and landing capability allows operation in confined areas without the need for runways. Electric motors produce less noise than conventional engines, making them suitable for operations in populated or noise-sensitive areas. The use of electric power eliminates direct carbon emissions during flight. Some eVTOL designs use distributed propulsion with multiple smaller propellers, providing redundancy in case of motor failure.
China’s eVTOL drone sector is driven by policies promoting the “low-altitude economy,” covering aerial logistics, urban air mobility, and emergency response below 1,000 meters. Government initiatives have relaxed airspace regulations and provided financial incentives to encourage manufacturers to develop and test new eVTOL models. By 2030, up to 100,000 eVTOLs could be deployed for air taxis, cargo transport, and personal mobility.
Chinese manufacturers gain from lower labor costs and a regulatory framework enabling faster development and production than in many other countries. Cost advantages and flexible payment terms make Chinese drones an option for countries with budget constraints. Investments in battery technology, electric propulsion, and artificial intelligence contribute to the expansion of this sector.
Moreover, China’s integration of civilian and military manufacturing facilitates the development of new unmanned aerial vehicles for different applications.
Source: Army Recognition