Future Power Under the Microscope

Thomas A. Horne (AOPA)

A panel discussion at AERO focused on the opportunities and challenges of the proposed alternative propulsion systems of the future. The views were as enlightening as they were divergent. Mike Kraft of Lycoming engines emphasized that traditional spark-ignition engines remain the most efficient at transforming avgas into power. Lycoming has been conducting tests with biomass fuels, but so far Lycoming has concluded that it will be difficult to anticipate the exact nature of future general aviation fuels. “We’re anticipating the software and strategies that we may have to use,” Kraft said, adding, “If we go to a fuel that doesn’t have the current energy properties of avgas, traditional engines won’t behave the same. So airframe manufacturers, engine manufacturers, and fuel suppliers must all cooperate in developing a future fuel.”



German firm debuts hybrid LSA engine

from AOPA Online/ AvWeb (4/5)

German manufacturer Flight Design has unveiled a new hybrid engine for its CT line of light sport aircraft. The new design uses an electric engine for takeoff and climb, before the traditional, 130 hp gasoline engine takes over for cruising. Flight Design says the hybrid feature increases safety, since the electric engine can take over during an emergency, increasing the aircraft's glide time for a safe landing.