7 November 2023
If you’ve ever fancied one of the Evolution turboprop powered four-seaters but been put off by the need to build a kit, Belgian company JMB Aircraft has the solution: the Evo.
The Evo is JMB’s version of Evolution’s EVOT-750, powered by a 750shp Pratt & Whitney PT6 turboprop engine. It will be built in JMB’s new facility that’s just opened in the Czech Republic. The Evo will be alongside JMB’s two-seat VL3, which is also a rocketship with a number of powerplant options.
JMB Aircraft formed a partnership with Oregon-based Evolution Aircraft in 2022. Matej Ungr, head of marketing at JMB Aircraft told FLYER, “JMB aircraft is manufacturer of the Evo but still the project belongs to Evolution aircraft corporation. JMB handles production, marketing activities, training and sales.
JMB’s new Evo is based on the Evolution EVOT-750 kitplane
“The plane [Evo] is fully factory-built for most parts of the world but for USA registration we will go with a 51/49 percent build programme to meet the Experimental regulations.
“For now we do not want to certify the plane in order to maintain financial stability but in future we want to certify the plane.”
JMB opened a new factory for the Evo and VL3 at the end of October
The JMB Evo isn’t cheap at around 1.6m euro excluding VAT but offers scintillating performance. Best rate of climb is cited at 4,000 feet per minute, max cruise speed is 290ktas while retaining a stall speed of 61kias.
JMB has developed the Evo from Evolution’s original EVOT-750 with a completely new interior, different flap system, and a deice system. Standard avionics includes two Garmin G3X Touch displays, Gi 275 backup, Garmin radio and GTN650xi navcomms. Options include Garmin G500s, live weather radar and a ‘Starship’ interior.
JMB’s new interior for the four-seat Evo
Safety features include:
