DJI Agras T100 Unleashed: 100‑Liter Crop-Spraying Beast Revolutionizes Farming

Key Facts

• Massive Payload & Multi-Role Capability: DJI’s Agras T100 is a flagship agricultural drone with a 100 L liquid spray tank, 150 L spreader hopper, and up to 100 kg lifting payload – the largest in DJI’s Agras lineup dji.com ag.dji.com. It supports spraying, granular spreading, and heavy-lift tasks in one platform.
• High Performance & Efficiency: The T100 doubles the spray efficiency of its predecessor and reaches up to 20 m/s operation speed (≈72 km/h) dji.com. It can dispense liquids at 30–40 L/min (with two or four nozzles) and broadcast granules at 400 kg/min, enabling rapid coverage of large fields dji.com. Flight times range ~10–13 minutes fully loaded, covering up to 20 ha per flight under optimal conditions droneroboticstec.com dominiondrones.com.
• Advanced Sensing & Autonomy: Equipped with LiDAR, millimeter-wave radar, and a Penta-vision (five-camera) system, the T100 offers 360° obstacle detection up to 60 m dji.com thedronevortex.com. AI-powered systems enable terrain following, automated route planning, and even augmented reality overlays for real-time field mapping dronexl.co dronexl.co. This Safety System 3.0 allows safe operation day or night and in complex terrains (e.g. orchards, hillsides).
• Robust Design & Power: The drone uses a coaxial octocopter design (eight rotors on four arms) with 62‑inch carbon fiber propellers for massive thrust thedronevortex.com thedronevortex.com. Max takeoff weight is ~175 kg when fully loaded thedronevortex.com. A high-capacity 41,000 mAh intelligent battery and 11.5 kW fast charger enable 8–9 minute charging cycles ag.dji.com thedronevortex.com, minimizing downtime in the field.
• Software Integration: The T100 integrates with DJI’s SmartFarm/GS Pro software for mission planning and analytics. Users can import field maps, plan GPS-precise flight routes, and monitor spraying in real time via a 7-inch touchscreen controller thedronevortex.com aresacres.com. Data from multispectral scouting drones (like DJI’s Mavic 3M) can be used to target problem areas, and fully automated spraying across multiple fields is supported dji.com aresacres.com.
• Price & Availability (2025): The Agras T100 launched globally in mid-2025. It is available in select regions (initially Southeast Asia and Latin America) via authorized dealers prnewswire.com. In the U.S. and Europe, it’s expected by late 2025, with specialized importers already delivering units under existing regulations dronexl.co aresacres.com. Pricing is in the tens of thousands of USD – around $25,000 for the base aircraft and up to $50–60,000 for full kits with batteries, charging station, and accessories droneroboticstec.com dominiondrones.com.
• Competitors: With its 100 L tank, the T100 currently leads the industry in capacity, outclassing rivals like the XAG P150 (≈70 L tank) and Hylio’s Ares (≈50 L capacity). It also introduces a novel lifting function (100 kg winch) seldom seen in ag drones. DJI’s closest lower models are the new Agras T70P (70 L spray, 100 L spread) and T25P (20 L spray) – all emphasizing DJI’s hallmark of automation, safety, and sheer payload power precisionfarmingdealer.com dji.com.

Full Technical Specifications and Features

Aircraft Design: The Agras T100 is a heavy-lift octocopter built for endurance and power. It features a coaxial dual-rotor design (twin motors on each arm) for redundancy and lift, with 62‑inch carbon-fiber propellers providing high thrust thedronevortex.com thedronevortex.com. The drone’s frame is engineered from composite materials for durability while keeping the empty weight around 75–77 kg in spray configuration ag.dji.com droneroboticstec.com. In its largest form the T100 measures about 3.22 m across (arms unfolded) but folds down to roughly 1.1 × 1.3 m for transport ag.dji.com. An IPX6K/IP67 rugged build and operating range of 0 °C to 40 °C allow it to withstand harsh farm conditions ag.dji.com thedronevortex.com.

Payload and Modular Systems: What truly sets the T100 apart is its modular tri-use payload system, enabling three modes of operation:

• Spraying Mode: A 100 L pesticide/fertilizer tank (HDPE construction) is mounted, with dual spray nozzles standard (optional four-nozzle kit) ag.dji.com ag.dji.com. Dual centrifugal impeller pumps deliver up to 30 L/min through two nozzles, or 40 L/min with four misting nozzles dji.com. Spray droplet size is adjustable from ~50–500 μm for different crops ag.dji.com. The effective swath (spray width) reaches 5–13 m per pass depending on altitude and nozzle setup ag.dji.com. The T100 can carry a full 100 kg liquid payload, meaning it can spray roughly 100 liters in one flight ag.dji.com. This huge capacity (compared to 40 L on the older T40) translates to far fewer refills – a major efficiency boost for large farms aresacres.com. DJI claims the T100 can cover up to 20 hectares per hour in ideal conditions droneroboticstec.com, thanks to its speed and volume. In practice, real-world coverage will vary by application rate, but the T100 clearly targets large-scale commercial growers needing high throughput dji.com.
• Spreading Mode: For seeding or fertilizer granules, the T100 swaps in a 150 L spreader hopper with a combination screw feeder and centrifugal disc spreader (DJI Spreading System 4.0) ag.dji.com ag.dji.com. This system can broadcast material at up to 400 kg per minute (using a high-speed spiral auger) – an increase of 270% in flow rate over the previous generation dji.com. Granule sizes from ~0.5 mm up to 10 mm are supported via interchangeable auger attachments ag.dji.com. The effective spread width is about 3–10 m ag.dji.com. With an ample 100 kg hopper payload capacity, an operator can e.g. spread 40 kg of fertilizer per acre in a single automated pass, with onboard sensors ensuring uniform coverage dronexl.co. Such capacity and speed “raise questions about how [drone spreading] could reduce chemical waste,” as AI optimization ensures even application across varied terrain dronexl.co.
• Lifting (Winch) Mode: In a novel addition, the T100 can act as a flying winch for heavy payload delivery. It supports up to 100 kg of lift via a cable and winch system (with 10–15 m cable length) ag.dji.com thedronevortex.com. A single-battery winch system handles ~65–100 kg, while an optional dual-battery lifting kit provides extra power for up to ~80 kg loads with added safety margin ag.dji.com ag.dji.com. For safety, the winch has an auto sway-reduction algorithm and a quick-release “escape” mechanism to drop the load if necessary dominiondrones.com ag.dji.com. This heavy-lift capability opens new use cases – DJI demonstrated the T100 delivering emergency supplies in flood‐hit areas where ground access was cut off dronexl.co. It can hoist equipment, seed bags, or even firefighting water buckets to remote locations, tasks traditionally impossible for drones.

Power System: To lift such payloads, the T100 uses DJI’s largest battery yet – the DB2160 Intelligent Flight Battery (52 V, 41 Ah, ~2130 Wh) ag.dji.com droneroboticstec.com. Each battery weighs ~14.7 kg and can be hot-swapped between missions ag.dji.com droneroboticstec.com. Flight endurance is around 23 minutes with no load, or 9–13 minutes at full load (100 L) droneroboticstec.com – enough to spray a full tank before needing to land. To minimize downtime, DJI offers the D14000iE inverter charging station: a portable gasoline generator and 12 kW fast charger that can recharge a T100 battery from 30% to 95% in just 8–9 minutes ag.dji.com ag.dji.com. This means a two-battery rotation can keep the drone flying almost continuously. The generator holds a 30 L fuel tank (gasoline) and doubles as a 220V AC power source on-site ag.dji.com ag.dji.com. In areas with grid power, a C12000 smart charger is also available for rapid charging from three-phase AC ag.dji.com. The high-current charging and intelligent battery management make the T100’s turnaround time significantly faster than most competitors (which often take 30–60 minutes to charge) thedronevortex.com.

Structural & Flight Specs: The T100’s diagonal wheelbase is 2.33 m, giving it a wide stance for stability ag.dji.com. It can withstand winds up to ~6 m/s (moderate breeze) while maintaining spray accuracy ag.dji.com. The max ascent speed and flight dynamics are tuned to agricultural needs – in spray mode it’s capped around 10 m/s (36 km/h) for optimal coverage, while in transit it can hit 20 m/s (72 km/h) to quickly reach field sections droneroboticstec.com dji.com. The propulsion uses eight low-KV brushless motors (155×16 mm stators, 60 rpm/V) spinning 62-inch props, giving each coaxial pair a lifting force up to ~82 kgf dronexl.co. This ensures the drone can handle the 175 kg takeoff weight with power to spare for maneuverability dronexl.co. Despite its size, the T100 is foldable and designed to be transported on a pickup truck or trailer, fitting into the workflows of agronomy teams.

Advanced Safety, Sensors and Autonomy

Operating a drone the size of a small helicopter over crops demands top-notch safety and intelligence. DJI has outfitted the Agras T100 with an industry-leading sensor suite and autonomy algorithms to make its operation as safe and automated as possible.

• Multidirectional Obstacle Sensing: The T100 carries a 360° obstacle avoidance system combining multiple sensor types. A front-mounted active phased-array millimeter-wave radar continuously scans up to 60 m ahead, even in dust or fog thedronevortex.com thedronevortex.com. Simultaneously, a five-camera “penta-vision” system (fisheye stereo cameras on all sides) provides visual sensing covering the full surroundings thedronevortex.com. This is paired with an upward-facing LiDAR unit (Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging) that generates dense point clouds of the environment. The result is an all-condition perception system that detects obstacles as small as power lines or tree branches and maps terrain for real-time path planning thedronevortex.com. According to DJI, the T100’s Safety System 3.0 lets it intelligently “see” and avoid obstacles in front, behind, below and around the drone, with effective avoidance at speeds up to ~13.8 m/s ag.dji.com ag.dji.com. In practical terms, this means the drone can fly low over uneven fields or orchards and automatically reroute or pause if an obstacle (tree, pole, person, etc.) encroaches, significantly reducing collision risk.
• Terrain Following & Precision Navigation: Using the downward LiDAR and radar, the T100 can maintain a constant height above crops even as the ground rises or falls – crucial for uniform spraying on uneven terrain. The drone’s navigation is enhanced by RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) GPS positioning, achieving ±10 cm accuracy horizontally and vertically when used with the DJI D-RTK 3 base station ag.dji.com. This centimeter-level positioning allows for precise flight lines and even autonomous return-to-home (RTH) that can retrace its path to avoid obstacles thedronevortex.com thedronevortex.com. The remote controller has an integrated high-brightness 7″ screen running the DJI SmartFarm app, which provides live telemetry and video feed (via an on-board FPV camera) so operators can monitor missions closely ag.dji.com thedronevortex.com. The control link uses DJI’s latest O4 wireless transmission, giving a stable video/control range up to 2 km in the field dominiondrones.com.
• Intelligent Flight Modes: DJI has leveraged advances from its consumer drones to make the T100’s operations highly automated. Route planning and mapping can be done in-app by drawing field boundaries or importing GPS maps; the drone can then automatically generate efficient spray paths. An operator can oversee multiple drones or program sequential missions for the T100 to spray, spread, and map in one workflow. The T100 also supports “one-click” fully automated missions for simpler use – with a tap, it can take off, execute a pre-planned job, and land, which DJI says helps novice users get started quickly dominiondrones.com dominiondrones.com. For advanced users, every parameter (flight speed, droplet size, flow rate, etc.) can be manually tuned mid-mission. Crucially, if the drone runs low on battery or tank mid-field, it can be set to return to a refill point, swap battery or refill chemical, then resume right where it left off, thanks to precise RTK positioning and memory of completed waypoints en.wikipedia.org.
• Night Operations and All-Weather Features: The T100 comes with integrated low-light flood lamps, allowing operations during dawn, dusk or nighttime if needed dronexl.co. This can be useful for spraying sensitive crops under low-light to avoid pollinators, or performing urgent tasks outside of daylight hours. The drone is designed to be weather-resistant – important electronics are sealed to an IP67 standard (dust-tight and waterproof to immersion) and the propeller system is tested for stability in light rain. While heavy rain or winds above 6 m/s are to be avoided, the T100’s robust build and sensors give it a wider operating window than earlier models. As one industry publication noted, automation, safety, and payload power are DJI’s hallmarks in this new model, ensuring it “protects both operators and the environment” even as it tackles bigger jobs precisionfarmingdealer.com.
• Failsafes: Safety extends to multiple redundancies – dual IMUs and compasses, motor load monitoring, and an advanced flight controller that can execute a controlled descent on half of its motors if necessary. The “Emergency Escape” winch feature (in lift mode) will automatically jettison a suspended payload if the drone’s stability is compromised by swaying, preventing a worst-case scenario ag.dji.com. Geofencing can be enabled to prevent the drone from straying out of designated fields. There’s also real-time 4G module support (in some regions) to upload flight data for compliance and receive remote support if an issue arises. Together, these systems make the T100 “unparalleledly safe and intelligent” to operate despite its size dji.com.

Use Cases and Real-World Performance

The Agras T100’s introduction is a response to the increasing scale of precision agriculture. With half a million DJI ag drones already treating over 300 crop types worldwide, farmers are seeking more efficient tools for larger farms prnewswire.com. The T100 squarely targets that need with its capability to cover more acres per hour and take on tasks beyond crop spraying.

Large-Scale Crop Spraying: The primary use case is large commercial farms – think expansive rice paddies, wheat fields, corn and soybean farms, or oil palm plantations. In such settings, the T100 significantly reduces the refill cycles compared to a 20–40 L drone. For example, where a midsize drone might need to land 5 times to spray a 50 ha field, the T100 could do it with 1–2 stops. DJI’s Yuan Zhang (Head of Global Sales) noted that demand for spray drones grows every year, and the T100 is meant to “continue to innovate how we farm and feed communities, while reducing environmental costs” prnewswire.com prnewswire.com. With precise application, farmers can cut down on over-spraying – saving chemicals and avoiding excess runoff. One operator quoted in a DroneXL report lauded the T100’s ability to “minimize labor while maximizing coverage” on expansive fields dronexl.co dronexl.co. Essentially, one T100 can do the work of multiple smaller drones or ground sprayers, freeing up labor and finishing jobs faster.

High-Volume Fertilizer Spreading: In regions where crops like rice or corn require pelletized urea topdressing, the T100’s 150 L spreader and 400 kg/min rate shine. Farmers can load a full bag of fertilizer (50 kg) at a time, and the drone will swiftly broadcast it with computer-controlled consistency. Automated reporting of acres covered and material used after each run (via the app) helps agronomists ensure even nutrient application dronexl.co dronexl.co. The large spreader is also useful for seeding cover crops or grass over broad areas, or spreading feed on fish ponds. Compared to manual broadcasting or tractor spreaders, an autonomous drone can reach waterlogged or difficult terrain without damaging soil. The T100 has potential in serving multiple farms as a contract service: one crew could be hired to rapidly seed or fertilize dozens of farms during a narrow planting window.

Orchards and Specialty Crops: While the T100 is physically large for tight orchard rows, it can be deployed in larger plantations (citrus groves, olive orchards) where its fine misting capability with four nozzles is beneficial. The droplet size can be set to as low as ~50 μm to create a fog-like spray that penetrates canopy cover on trees ag.dji.com. DJI also advertises terrain-following in mountainous orchards – the drone’s algorithms adjust to slope changes to keep spray height consistent dji.com. Smaller models like the T25P may be more agile in very tight plots, but the T100 can still autonomously handle orchard blocks, spraying row by row with minimal supervision. Crop monitoring is another use: the T100 can carry sensors or simply use its cameras to do multispectral surveys (though DJI also offers dedicated mapping drones). Its powerful motors create a strong downdraft, which can help push spray into dense foliage – a technique orchardists value and one that XAG (a DJI competitor) also emphasizes with its drones’ downdraft effect croplife.com.

Logistics and Aerial Delivery: Perhaps the most novel uses of the T100 come from its heavy-lift mode. DJI has effectively blurred the line between agricultural drone and delivery drone. In disaster relief scenarios, the T100 can carry emergency payloads (food, water, medical kits) to areas unreachable by road. This was demonstrated in Vietnam, where a T100 was used in flood rescue operations to bring aid to stranded families dronexl.co. The drone’s 100 kg capacity is not far off from manned utility drones, raising possibilities for firefighting (carrying fire retardant or a water hose) or construction (lifting tools to high-rise sites). While flight time is limited with heavy loads (~5–6 minutes at max 100 kg payload, per DJI’s guidance), it’s sufficient for short-hop deliveries. The T100, in essence, doubles as DJI’s “FlyCart 100” heavy payload drone – FCC filings even list it under that name en.wikipedia.org en.wikipedia.org. This suggests DJI may eventually market it for pure cargo uses in addition to farming. Still, in agriculture there are direct benefits: lifting spare parts out to broken-down tractors in the field, ferrying crop samples from the field to a lab, or transporting beneficial insects for biological pest control drops.

Environmental Monitoring: With its stable flight platform and large battery, the T100 can carry additional sensors (within its payload) for research – e.g. air quality sensors to monitor emissions over farms, or spraying bioremediation microbes over polluted water bodies. Its integrated AR overlay feature on the controller means that as it flies, it can map out which areas have been covered, which can help in precision agriculture data collection dronexl.co. Researchers and crop consultants could program the drone to collect soil or water samples using a tethered apparatus. These sorts of advanced applications highlight the T100’s role as not just a sprayer, but a general aerial workhorse for rural industries.

Pricing and Availability (2025)

The DJI Agras T100 was officially launched globally in July 2025, following an initial debut in China in late 2024 dronexl.co en.wikipedia.org. As of now (late 2025), its availability varies by region:

• Asia and Latin America: DJI’s first rollout focuses on markets like China, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. Authorized DJI Agriculture dealers in countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, Brazil, Mexico, etc., are offering the T100 to large farming enterprises prnewswire.com. In these regions, agricultural drone adoption is high, and governments have been more open to large spray drones. For example, in China the T100 (and its sibling T70) have been used in government-sponsored crop spraying initiatives since early 2025 en.wikipedia.org. Southeast Asian plantations (palm oil, rice) are early adopters of the high-capacity drone. DJI’s press release indicates sales began in mid-2025 in these areas, with training programs to support new pilots dji.com dji.com.
• North America: The T100 was not immediately sold via DJI’s U.S. or Canadian websites at launch, due in part to regulatory approvals and the sheer scale of the drone. However, it is legal to import and operate in the U.S. under existing FAA rules for unmanned aircraft, provided pilots obtain the necessary Part 107 certifications and any exemptions for the heavy weight class aresacres.com aresacres.com. Specialist distributors and importers (like Ares Acres and Rantizo in the U.S.) have started facilitating orders. According to an Ares Acres guide, “the T100 is fully importable, legal to own, and operational in the U.S. today… trusted importers have the expertise to ensure seamless delivery” aresacres.com aresacres.com. Early adopters in the U.S. are primarily custom application service companies and large agribusinesses willing to navigate the import process. By fall 2025, DJI has indicated the T100 will be formally introduced in North America (pending any needed FCC clearances, which have been filed en.wikipedia.org). Once available, buyers can expect to work through enterprise dealers for setup and support, given the drone’s complexity.
• Europe: In the EU and UK, the T100 faces a similar situation. It must comply with EASA regulations, which currently categorize drones over 25 kg under the Specific category requiring special permission. European ag tech firms are keen on the T100 for large farms in Eastern Europe, Spain, and France. Some units have reportedly been imported for trials. Widespread availability is likely in 2026 after regulatory adaptations. DJI’s global launch did not list Europe in the first-wave regions, implying a cautious approach to each country’s rules. Nonetheless, interested buyers in Europe are already in contact with DJI enterprise resellers to prepare for eventual approval.
• Pricing: DJI did not publish a retail price in its announcement, instead referring customers to dealers for quotes prnewswire.com. Based on dealer listings, the Agras T100’s base price is roughly $25,000–$30,000 (USD) for the core drone with a spray kit droneroboticstec.com. This typically includes the drone, spray tank, basic nozzles, and remote controller. However, batteries and charging systems are sold separately, and they are a significant expense – each DB2160 battery can cost a few thousand dollars, and the D14000iE charging generator can be $8,000+ on its own. Thus, DJI and its dealers offer package bundles. A “Standard Set” (commonly marketed) might include the drone, one battery, the generator/charger, and spares. For instance, one U.S. dealer lists a DJI T100 Standard Set at $59,999 dominiondrones.com. This higher bundle price accounts for the power system and training/support. There is also a “Flagship Set” with additional batteries (2–3 total), the spreading and lifting attachments, and extended warranty/service plans, which can exceed $80,000 in cost. Operating costs will include battery fuel or electricity, maintenance of pumps and motors, and software subscriptions if any. Even so, for large farms the return on investment can be quick: replacing manned crop-dusting flights or reducing pesticide use can save tens of thousands of dollars annually. As one precision ag dealer put it, farmers are looking at ROI as much as specs – “it’s about solid results, input savings, and ongoing support” with these high-end drones, not just the sticker price.

Comparison to Other Agras Models and Competitors

The Agras T100 enters a growing field of heavy-duty agricultural drones. Here’s how it stacks up against DJI’s own stable and key competitors:

• DJI Agras T70P (and T70): The T70P was launched alongside the T100 as the next step down in payload. It carries up to 70 L spray or 100 L spread (65 kg lifting) dji.com. In effect, the T70P is a slightly smaller sibling, with the same 20 m/s top speed and sharing the new spreading and lifting systems (Safety System 3.0 with Tri-vision cameras instead of Penta-vision) dji.com. The earlier Agras T70 (China-only, 2024) had a 70 L tank but was limited to ~50 L use per flight due to a smaller battery en.wikipedia.org – the T70P’s upgraded power system unlocks the full 70 L. Both T70P and T100 use coaxial octo-rotor designs (the T70P is described as a “quad” frame, likely 4 arms, 8 motors). For most mid-size farms, the T70P can be more practical (lighter, lower cost). But the T100’s 100 L vs 70 L gives it roughly 40% more spray capacity and dual battery capability for lifting, making it the choice for “massive commercial operations” precisionfarmingdealer.com. DJI also introduced the Agras T25P as a compact 20 L unit for small farms or research – essentially an update to its T20 line with the new tech (25 kg spreader, Safety 3.0) dji.com. In summary, DJI’s 2025 lineup covers 20 L, 70 L, and 100 L tiers, each targeting different scales. All prioritize automation and fast charging, but only the T100 and T70P have the full heavy-lift and top performance features.
• XAG P150 and P100: XAG (a major Chinese ag-drone maker) has been DJI’s notable competitor. Their newly announced XAG P150 carries an 18.4 gal tank (~70 L) and sprays up to 7.9 gal/min (30 L/min) with four centrifugal nozzles croplife.com. This is very close to the T100’s liquid throughput (40 L/min max) and matches its high-end capabilities like 40 mph flight speed and advanced obstacle radar (XAG uses a 4D imaging radar up to 300 ft) croplife.com. The P150 is a quad-rotor (4 propellers) design, relying on larger props and powerful downdraft to cover orchards croplife.com. In capacity, the T100’s 100 L still exceeds the P150’s ~70 L, giving DJI the edge on fewer refills. XAG’s previous model, the P100 Pro, has about a 50–60 L tank and foldable design for transport skydronesusa.com pegasusrobotics.com. It could cover ~70 acres/hour in ideal conditions with a ~10 m spray width, which is similar to DJI’s performance claims. XAG prides itself on AI and swarm capabilities too, but DJI’s SmartFarm ecosystem is now on par. For a buyer, XAG’s drones are usually a bit less expensive than DJI’s and have been popular in East Asia and Australia. However, XAG lacks the new lifting feature – the P-series are strictly for crop spraying/seeding. In markets like the U.S., XAG is not as established (some models are sold via third parties), whereas DJI’s global presence and support network can be a deciding factor for enterprise buyers.
• Hylio (AgriDrone Ares 150): Hylio is a U.S.-based ag drone maker that touts NDAA-compliance (non-Chinese components) for government-friendly procurement. Their latest HYL-150 Ares model features a 40 ft spray swath and a 110 lb liquid tank (~50 L) croplife.com. It’s a multi-drone swarm system, meaning a single operator can deploy several Ares drones in tandem, which partly offsets each unit’s smaller capacity. Hylio claims an impressive 50+ acres/hour coverage per drone with optimized settings croplife.com, leveraging high-speed spraying and a swarm for scale. Compared to the T100, the Ares carries half the payload and slightly less flow rate, but in regions where DJI faces procurement hurdles, Hylio positions itself as a strong alternative. The Ares also has a 40 ft (12 m) effective spray width which is on par with T100’s max width croplife.com. Hylio emphasizes its proprietary AgroSol software and easier maintenance for heavy use operators croplife.com. Still, the lack of a spreader or lift capability makes the Ares a more specialized spraying tool. For large farms, a fleet of two Hylio Ares drones could roughly match one T100 in coverage, albeit with more complexity. The cost per drone for Hylio is not publicly listed but expected to be competitive; their smaller models (like AG-272 with 18 gal tank) have been in the $25k range, similar to DJI’s smaller Agras. Hylio’s strength is being American-made, which some customers prefer, but DJI’s T100 currently outguns it in sheer capacity.
• EAVision and Others: A notable mention is EAVision’s J100 drone, which was highlighted as the first ag drone with integrated LiDAR for terrain following (preceding DJI in that feature) croplife.com. The J100 has an 11.9 gal (45 L) tank and an optional 110 lb spreader kit, aiming at efficient spraying with up to ~60 acres/hour coverage croplife.com. This puts it in the mid-tier segment (comparable to DJI T40 or T50). It’s being introduced in the U.S. via partners with an angle of advanced autonomy. Similarly, Yamaha’s traditional R-MAX and newer Yamaha Fazer drones (helicopter-style UAVs) carry about 16–32 L; these have been used in Japan for decades on rice fields, but DJI’s multi-rotors have largely overtaken them thanks to easier operation and now larger payloads. Other Chinese entrants like TT Aviation or Xiaomi’s Drone haven’t yet matched DJI’s capacities. In essence, “the Agras T100’s industry-leading 100 L capacity and 85–100 kg lift” stand out in 2025 thedronevortex.com. Competitors are closing the gap in automation and maybe speed, but no other widely available ag drone matches the T100’s combination of payload and multi-functionality. This is likely to spur a new class of “drone tractors in the sky” as rivals respond.

Recent News and Future Outlook

The launch of the DJI Agras T100 has made headlines in both drone industry media and mainstream agriculture news. In DJI’s own words, it’s the culmination of “over 12 years of dedicated R&D” in agricultural drones dji.com. Here are some recent developments and what’s next for DJI Agriculture:

• Global Launch and Reception: DJI announced the Agras T100 (along with T70P and T25P) globally on July 15, 2025 dji.com. The news was covered by outlets like DroneXL, which noted the T100’s initial debut in China in late 2024 and its promise of “greater efficiency for drone professionals tackling expansive fields.” dronexl.co. The press release emphasized how DJI now has over 500,000 trained agricultural drone operators worldwide and that these next-gen models will help meet surging demand dji.com. Yuan Zhang of DJI Agriculture was quoted highlighting that more than 500,000 DJI ag drones are treating crops in 100 countries as of 2025 prnewswire.com – a testament to how mainstream this tech is becoming. Farming magazines have picked up the story, often framing the T100 as part of a broader push toward automation in agriculture. For instance, Precision Farming Dealer wrote that each new Agras model is tailored to a farm size, but all share DJI’s focus on “automation, safety, and payload power” in service of precision ag precisionfarmingdealer.com.
• Expert Commentary: Industry experts see the T100 as a sign of drones taking on roles traditionally done by tractors or even helicopters. “DJI has once again pushed the boundaries…drawing from over a decade of expertise,” one agritech blog remarked, calling the T100 a “powerhouse for commercial-scale farming” especially due to its sensors and speed dronespraypro.com dronespraypro.com. Ag service providers like Rantizo (USA) have expressed excitement because larger drones could make custom spray services more scalable – one drone covering more acres means fewer units and pilots to manage for a given job. On the other hand, some agronomists caution that operational training and maintenance will be crucial: “These aren’t just plug-and-play toys – they’re crop dusters in their own right,” one expert noted on a webinar, emphasizing the need for skilled pilots and careful planning for things like battery logistics and chemical refills. DJI’s response has been to roll out new training initiatives via DJI Academy, with courses in 15 countries to certify pilots on safe and effective agricultural drone use dji.com dji.com. This indicates DJI is actively building the support ecosystem around the T100 to ensure its successful adoption.
• Regulatory and Environmental News: Large drones like the T100 are also entering regulatory spotlights. In some countries, authorities are updating rules to accommodate heavier UAVs for agriculture. The T100’s takeoff weight (~175 kg) edges into what many aviation bodies classify as small aircraft. As of 2025, DJI works with regulators to allow these drones under specific conditions (e.g., only over farms, line-of-sight operation, daytime use, etc.). On the environmental side, the precision of drones like T100 is being highlighted as a boon: less overspray means less pollution. There’s also interest in using the T100 for tasks like mosquito control (as earlier smaller Agras models did for malaria control projects en.wikipedia.org) but on a larger scale – potentially covering wide swamp areas quickly. News reports have even touched on unconventional angles: a July 2025 Al Jazeera report mentioned concerns about heavy drones being retrofitted for non-agricultural uses (it cited an instance of DJI drones modified for conflict situations) en.wikipedia.org. While unrelated to farming, it underscores that a drone this capable draws attention beyond agriculture circles.
• Future Product Developments: Looking ahead, DJI is likely to continue expanding the Agras lineup. The “P” in T70P and T25P indicates upgraded, improved versions (successors to T70 and T25 perhaps). It would not be surprising to see a T100P in a couple of years with incremental improvements (perhaps even higher battery energy or fully autonomous field recharging). DJI’s R&D focus appears to be on AI and efficiency – future Agras drones might incorporate more AI for recognizing crop health variability on the fly, or adapting spray in real-time based on sensor feedback. Another direction is swarm operation: while DJI hasn’t formally announced swarm features, the competition (Hylio, XAG) are offering it. We might anticipate DJI enabling one controller to manage multiple T100s collaboratively, which could be transformative for spraying extremely large farms or doing tasks like reforesting by drone. DJI is also investing in related tech such as agricultural analytics software and multispectral imaging – the integration between a scouting drone (mapping weeds or nutrient deficiencies) and the T100 acting on that data could tighten in future updates, closing the loop for fully data-driven precision farming.
• Upcoming Models: Rumors in the industry suggest DJI is exploring even bigger drones, but physics and regulations impose limits. The T100 at ~100 kg payload is likely near the upper bound for practical electric drones today. Instead of simply scaling up, DJI might focus on accessories and ecosystem: e.g., different spray nozzle technologies (electrostatic spray for better adhesion), smart refill systems on the ground, or even hybrid power to extend flight time (a hint being the inverter generator – maybe a future drone with a hybrid engine). The mention of “Agras T100/FlyCart 100” in FCC filings en.wikipedia.org implies DJI might branch the platform for cargo uses. In agriculture, a possible next step could be a dedicated Air Seeder Drone or partnering the T100 with autonomous ground vehicles for a full precision farm solution.

In summary, the DJI Agras T100 has burst onto the scene as one of the most powerful ag drones ever built, and early reports confirm it is living up to its promise. By revolutionizing how large farms can deploy aerial technology – from spraying vast fields in minutes to airlifting supplies – it represents a significant leap in farming innovation. As one expert aptly put it, DJI’s new Agras models “continue to innovate how we farm and feed communities, while reducing the environmental costs” prnewswire.com prnewswire.com. The T100 is not only raising the bar for competitors but is also expanding the imagination of what drones can do on the farm. The eyes of the agricultural world will be watching in the coming seasons to see how this 100‑liter aerial workhorse performs and what new possibilities it unlocks in precision agriculture.

Sources:

1. DJI, “DJI Agras T100, T70P and T25P Launches Globally,” DJI Newsroom, Jul. 15 2025 dji.com dji.com.
2. DJI, Agras T100 Product Page – “Big Drone, Big Jobs,” 2025 ag.dji.com ag.dji.com.
3. DJI, Agras T100 Specifications Sheet, 2025 ag.dji.com ag.dji.com.
4. DroneXL – Haye Kesteloo, “DJI Unveils Agras T100 Drone…,” Jul. 15 2025 dronexl.co dronexl.co.
5. Drone Robotics Tech, “DJI Agras T100 vs T50 vs T25 – Spec Comparison,” 2025 droneroboticstec.com droneroboticstec.com.
6. DJI (PR Newswire release), “New Agras Drones Offer Higher Efficiency…,” Jul. 15 2025 prnewswire.com prnewswire.com.
7. The Drone Vortex, “DJI Agras T100 Specifications [Updated],” Jan. 4 2025 thedronevortex.com thedronevortex.com.
8. CropLife, “Latest Ag Drones Deliver Power… (HYL-150 Ares, XAG P150, etc),” Jul. 30 2025 croplife.com croplife.com.
9. Ares Acres, “Is the DJI T100 Available in the USA? – Definitive Guide,” Jul. 26 2025 aresacres.com aresacres.com.
10. Dominion Drones, “DJI T100 Ag Drone (Standard Set) – Product Listing,” 2025 dominiondrones.com dominiondrones.com.
11. Precision Farming Dealer, “DJI Launches 3 New Agri Drones Globally,” Jul. 19 2025 precisionfarmingdealer.com.
12. Drone Spray Pro, “DJI Announces Agras T100, T70P, T25P – Blog,” Jul. 15 2025 dronespraypro.com dronespraypro.com.