Operated via tablet, the drone delivers a live 3D map to identify and troubleshoot issues. This helps JLR avoid costly maintenance downtime, while also freeing up employees’ time to focus on additional business-critical tasks.

“As we transform our facilities, we’re rethinking every part of our factories, including how we maintain and operate them,” says Nigel Blenkinsop, executive director of industrial operations at JLR. “Advanced drone technology is helping us improve employee safety, reduce maintenance downtime and operate more efficiently.

“Just as importantly, [it’s] helping upskill our people in the latest digital technologies, ensuring our teams are part of our factories of the future,” explains Blenkinsop.

The drone is equipped with lidar sensors that enable engineers to create detailed 3D maps of the surrounding environment. In addition, a thermal camera helps pinpoint overheating components or insulation failures, helping optimize energy use by detecting inefficiencies early and supporting JLR’s efforts to reduce its overall operational emissions.

Following successful trials at EPMC, the drone will be deployed at JLR’s logistics operations center in Solihull. It will be equipped with bar code scanners to automate inventory checks, replacing manual processes and enabling faster, more accurate stock updates.

“This will help improve safety, reduce errors and support smarter decisions on space, stock levels and supply flow,” says Blenkinsop.