A 16-year-old student from The Scindia School in Gwalior, Medhansh Trivedi, has built a heavy-duty drone capable of carrying a person weighing up to 80 kg. Inspired by China’s advanced drone technology, Trivedi created the MLDT 01 drone at a cost of Rs 3.5 lakh. He completed the project in just three months.

Trivedi shared how a YouTube video sparked his interest in building drones. “One day I was scrolling YouTube about how to make drones. A recommendation came about China’s air taxi. So, I clicked on that video and watched it. It was a four-seater drone that was very expensive. Since that day, I started developing a drone of my own on a budget,” he said.

Features of the MLDT 01 drone

The MLDT 01 drone is an electric model and has impressive features. According to Trivedi, it has 45 horsepower and can fly for six minutes at a speed of 60 kmph. It can carry a weight of up to 80 kg and measures 1.8 meters in length and width. For safety reasons, the drone has a maximum altitude of 10 meters.

It is powered by four motors, commonly used in agricultural drones. Trivedi is now working on a hybrid version of the drone to improve its performance.

Future plans and support

Trivedi credits his success to the guidance of the school’s dean, Manoj Mishra. “One day, I gave a class on how aeroplanes are built. That’s when Trivedi got inspired and began asking me more about the process,” Mishra explained.

In addition to the drone, Trivedi has previously built remote-controlled aeroplanes and cars. He also created a "suicide drone." After completing his studies, Trivedi plans to start his own venture focused on drone technology.