NLThere is a reason why FPV drone imagery has taken the motorsports world by storm in recent years. No camera on a tripod, no cable system, and no helicopter can do what an FPV racing drone does: tear along the asphalt right above a Formula 1 car, follow a motocross rider through a corner, or chase a stuntman on a rooftop. The result is raw, immersive footage that places viewers right in the middle of the action.
At Drone Department, we specialize in high-speed FPV drone operations for motorsports, action films, music videos, and extreme sports productions. In this article, we discuss the technology behind our racing drones, how a typical shoot on a track proceeds, the safety protocols we employ, and what EU regulations say about this type of operation.
The technology: how do our FPV drones reach 200 km/h?
Our high-speed FPV drones are not standard products you take out of a box. They are custom-built racing drones assembled and tuned by our team for specific use. Every component is chosen for maximum speed, stability, and image quality.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | High-Speed FPV | Cinema Drone (Inspire 3) |
|---|---|---|
| Top Speed | Up to 200 km/h | Up to 94 km/h |
| Acceleration 0-100 | Less than 2 seconds | N/A |
| Camera | GoPro Hero, Sony ZV-E10 | Zenmuse X9 8K |
| Weight | 500 - 900 grams | 3.5+ kg |
| Flight Time | 3 - 6 minutes | 28 minutes |
| Control | Fully manual (acro) | GPS-stabilized |
| Ideal for | Chase shots, tracking, proximity | Wide shots, reveals, orbits |
Camera Options for High-Speed FPV
- GoPro Hero 12/13: the most commonly used camera for FPV. Lightweight, HyperSmooth stabilization, and up to 5.3K resolution
- Sony ZV-E10: larger sensor for a more cinematic look, ideal for commercials where image quality is a priority
- DJI Action 5 Pro: strong alternative with excellent stabilization and color dynamics
- Insta360 Ace Pro 2: for 360-degree perspectives and creative reframing in post
How does an FPV shoot on a track proceed?
A high-speed FPV shoot is different from a regular drone recording. The flights are short, intense, and require extreme concentration. Below we describe what a typical day on the track looks like.
Step-by-step Workflow
- Preparation (1-2 weeks before the shoot): we study the track, the corners, the barriers, and the positions of marshals. Ideally, we receive a track map and a briefing from the track management.
- Site Survey (morning of the shoot): we walk the track, identify the best starting positions and flight paths, and coordinate with the race director on safety protocols.
- Test Flights (without vehicles): we fly the trajectory multiple times to perfect speed, height, and timing.
- Live Chase Runs: during the recording session, our pilot flies along with the vehicle. Each run lasts 3 to 6 minutes, after which the battery is changed.
- Review and Adjustments: after each run, we review the footage with the director and adjust the flight plan if necessary.
Applications and References
High-speed FPV drone imagery is no longer a niche. It has become a standard part of the production toolkit for brands, broadcasters, and filmmakers who want to make an impact.
What we are hired for
- Car Brands: commercials and social media content for brands like Toyota, Suzuki, and other automotive brands. The FPV drone follows the vehicle at eye level, offering perspectives unachievable with any other camera
- Motorsports Events: registrations on tracks like Zandvoort, TT Circuit Assen, and international locations. Think of Formula 1, DTM, GT racing, and motocross
- Extreme Sports: mountain biking, snowboarding, skateboarding, and water sports. The FPV drone follows the athlete through the course
- Action Films and Music Videos: dynamic chase sequences that were previously only possible with a camera helicopter
- Brand Content for Social Media: short, energetic FPV clips that generate millions of views on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube
Check our projects page for concrete examples of high-speed FPV work we have delivered for these clients.
Safety and EU Regulations for High-Speed FPV Operations
Flying at 200 km/u near vehicles and people is by definition a high-risk operation. It falls under the strictest category of EASA EU regulations and requires specific permits, insurance, and protocols.
Why EU Specific Certification is Essential
Drone Department operates under a full EASA EU Specific company license (NLDoyhg6yl91zgtj). This is not optional for high-speed operations: it is legally required. Our certification covers:
- FPV operations where the drone operates outside the pilot's direct line of sight
- Flying in proximity to uninvolved persons (marshals, audience along the track)
- Operations in CTR airspace (many tracks are near airports)
- A documented safety management system with risk analyses per location
Our Safety Protocols
- Always a dedicated spotter next to the pilot monitoring the airspace and surroundings
- Geo-fenced flight zones agreed upon in advance with track management
- Kill-switch on the drone that immediately shuts off the motors in case of loss of control
- Full liability insurance for commercial drone operations
In Short
High-speed FPV drone imagery is the ultimate way to capture speed, action, and adrenaline in a way that is impossible with any other platform. At Drone Department, we combine custom-built racing drones with experienced pilots, a proven safety protocol, and full EU Specific certification.
Do you have a motorsports event, action film, or brand campaign where high-speed FPV can make the difference? View our projects, discover our complete service offerings, or contact us directly for a non-binding quote.