9 April 2014
Another European launch at AERO saw Rotax displaying its new 912iS Sport, a four-stroke, 100hp powerplant that the manufacturer predicts will quickly supercede the 912iS.
The new model promises to deliver improved take-off performance that results in a better climb rate and shorter take-off-run, even if the aircraft is equipped with a fixed pitch propeller. The improved performance is due to a number of changes to the engine design including a higher volume aluminium airbox, longer engine intake runners, slightly repositioned coils and a new ECU powered by new software, all of which has resulted in a higher torque curve.
A Rotax spokesman added that the new engine allows the pilot to benefit from an easier operation, longer flight range and lower operating costs, compared to carbureted engines, with no weight difference between the 912is and the Sport model. Fuel efficiency figures are also impressive, with the new engine delivering 38-70% better fuel efficiency than comparable engines. A TBO figures of 2,000 hours is the same as the 912iS, with both engines initially available at the same price. However, the plan is that the Sport will eventually replace the 912iS.
Deliveries of the 912iS are due to start in July, with the price due to be the same as the 912iS.
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