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The traditional general aviation aircraft engine has evolved, but not
fundamentally changed for the last sixty years. It has a number of
limitations, too many to detail here. It is gratifying that a
significantly better engine, shortly to be certified, is coming
available just when we need it.
The Shearwater has been designed for an engine that produces 220-240hp in the cruise. For takeoff, 300-320hp is excellent. We have chosen to use a turbocharged engine because the arguments in favor are compelling. Takeoffs can be planned up to maximum weight and high temperatures and high altitudes do not compromise the performance. Cruise power is maintained at high altitude allowing the Shearwater to cross mountain ranges such as the Rockies. A more efficient cruise operation, allowing better fuel efficiency and better range. The engine of choice is from Mistral. It is the G-360-TS, a turbocharged, 360hp, liquid cooled, rotary engine with a Digital Engine Management System, (FADEC). Ideal would be a turbonormalised version of the G-300, but it is yet to be confirmed that this option will be available. The prototype and the first kits available will only have the normally aspirated G-300. It is the best engine for the Shearwater, a new generation engine for the 21st century. In comparison with the traditional engine, it is
MISTRAL Engines SA is located in Geneva, Switzerland and MISTRAL Engines, LLC. located in Daytona Beach, Florida, is the company’s US subsidiary. For more detail on the company and its engines visit Mistral |
