Elroy Air launches autonomous cargo UAV.

Elroy Air on Dec. 16 announced the release of the Chaparral, an unmanned hybrid electric aircraft capable of carrying up to 300 pounds of cargo over 300 miles without the need for airports. Founded in 2016 by David Merrill and Clint Cope, Elroy Air has worked to create system applications for air cargo delivery for commercial, humanitarian, and military purposes.

Chaparral (Picture source: Elroy Air)

“We aim to be a catalyst. Our goal is to create a new wave of transportation that does not rely on infrastructure,” said Kofi Asante, the head of strategy and business development for Elroy Air.

The Chaparral has vertical takeoff and landing capabilities that allow every flat surface to become a potential delivery location. The cargo containers detach from the aircraft and once it is packed with goods, it is set aside and prepared for pickup. The Chaparral hovers over the container, picks up the cargo, then takes off vertically.