Voliro: 10 Key Things You Must Know
Overview
Voliro is a Swiss-based company revolutionizing the field of industrial inspections through advanced aerial robotics. Founded in 2019 as a spin-off from ETH Zurich's Autonomous Systems Lab, Voliro has positioned itself at the forefront of mobile robotics by developing drones equipped with capabilities that go beyond traditional inspection methods. These drones, known as Voliro T, employ a patented tiltable-rotor design, allowing them to maintain stable contact with various structures. This technological innovation not only enhances safety and efficiency but also expands the applicability of aerial inspection solutions across different sectors, including energy, chemicals, and renewables. In this article, discover the fascinating aspects of Voliro's journey and technology that sets them apart in the industry.
1. Genesis at ETH Zurich
Voliro originated from ETH Zurich’s prestigious Autonomous Systems Lab, renowned for pushing the boundaries of robotic technologies. The initial mission was to build an omnidirectional flying inspection robot capable of performing tasks at height. By 2019, Voliro was officially founded, paving the way for a surge in innovation within the aerial robotics sector. This academic and research foundation solidified Voliro’s reputation and provided a strong start as the company transitioned to full-scale commercial operations.
2. Pioneering Aerial Robotics
Voliro is making waves in aerial robotics with the development of its flagship product, the Voliro T drone. This innovative platform features a patented rotor system that can tilt 360 degrees, enabling it to make stable, contact-based inspections. This capability is essential for performing precision maintenance tasks at height and in hard-to-reach areas, setting new standards in the industry and ensuring that infrastructure can be monitored effectively without human risk.
3. Strategic Funding Growth
Since its inception, Voliro has attracted significant financial backing to expand its technological capabilities and market presence. As of 2025, Voliro has successfully closed a $23 million Series A funding round, with investments from Cherry Ventures and noa Ventures. This funding is pivotal in accelerating the global deployment of their autonomous inspection drones, enabling further research and development, and supporting the company's mission to modernize infrastructure maintenance.
4. Revolutionizing Industrial Inspections
Voliro’s drones are designed to transform the landscape of industrial inspections by increasing the frequency, reliability, and safety of these operations. Traditional inspection methods often involve significant risks and logistical challenges, such as scaffolding. Voliro's technology alleviates these issues by providing a safer, faster, and more cost-effective solution. The drones are equipped with various sensors that offer high-resolution data, making inspections not only safer but also more precise.
5. Environmental and Economic Impact
Voliro’s efforts align with global trends towards sustainability and economic efficiency, reducing the need for resource-intensive methods while minimizing environmental impacts. By cutting down inspection costs and improving asset uptime, the company contributes significantly to economic efficiency, helping industries reduce their carbon footprint and operational expenses. This is particularly relevant in sectors like wind energy, where rapid inspections ensure turbines remain operational, supporting clean energy initiatives.
6. Overcoming the Skills Gap
As industries scale and technologies advance, there is a notable skill gap in the workforce, particularly in inspection roles. Voliro addresses this challenge by creating intuitive systems that require less expertise to operate. Their drones are equipped with smart automation features, allowing newer, less experienced technicians to conduct thorough inspections with minimal risk. This democratization of technology is essential in empowering a new generation of technicians and ensuring a seamless transition to digital operation.
7. Commitment to Safety and Innovation
Safety and innovation are at the heart of Voliro's operations. The company consistently pushes technological boundaries to improve its services. The integration of AI-powered diagnostics and enhanced autonomy in their drones showcases their commitment to not only maintain but also advance standard safety protocols, offering proactive maintenance solutions that preempt potential infrastructural failures.
8. Global Market Penetration
Voliro has established a robust international presence, conducting over 100 contact inspections per month for more than 40 clients across 17 countries, including prominent industry players such as Chevron and Holcim. This global footprint reflects the growing demand for their technology and the versatility of their applications, making them a leader in the aerial inspection market.
9. Future Prospects and Developments
The future looks promising for Voliro as they continue to innovate and expand their product range. The next-generation drone platform will feature even deeper cloud integration, AI-driven diagnostics, and fully autonomous operations. Such advancements are expected to further push the boundaries of what aerial robotics can achieve, promising a future where inspections are entirely autonomous and more data-driven.
10. Overcoming Theft and Security Challenges
Despite its technological advancements, Voliro has faced challenges, including a high-profile drone theft incident. Such events highlight the importance of robust security measures for safeguarding valuable equipment. Voliro has been proactive in addressing these challenges by exploring improved security protocols and creating awareness in the drone community about the importance of security in safeguarding critical infrastructure.
Conclusion
Voliro exemplifies the confluence of innovation, safety, and efficiency in the aerial robotics domain. By offering cutting-edge solutions that address the critical needs of infrastructure inspection and maintenance, Voliro is not only modernizing industries but also contributing to broader economic and environmental sustainability goals. As the company continues to grow and innovate, it presents a compelling example of how technology can redefine industry standards, paving the way for a smarter, safer, and more connected future.