New Engine Brings Single-Lever Power Management To Evolution Aircraft

By Mike Gallagher

Lycoming announced Monday at EAA Airventure Oshkosh that Lancair is now taking orders for its piston Evolution aircraft, powered by Lycoming's TEO-540-EXP Integrated Electronic Engine (iE2). The TEO-540-EXP iE2 is a twin-turbocharged and intercooled 540 cubic inch engine that produces in excess of 350 horsepower.

The iE2 system allows the piston Lancair Evolution to offer pilots true single lever control of the aircraft propulsion system - both engine and propeller - along with automated preflight checks thereby decreasing pilot workload and allowing increased focus on flying. The iE2 system monitors all parameters of engine performance with updating every few milliseconds. Pilots will now be able to enjoy simplicity that is comparable to what automobile drivers have enjoyed since the introduction of computers in cars.

"Gone are the days when you would receive a big grey box," said Thomas Bowen, CEO of Lancair about the integration of the engine, iE2 system with the aircraft. Bowen flew the Lacair Evolution with the TEO-540-EXP iE2 from Oregon to Oshkosh cruising at 27,000 feet with a ground speed in excess of 330 KTS.

Lycoming also announced that a network of 88 Lycoming authorized service centers will be in place to provide service for iE2 equipped aircraft when the certified iE2 engines are approved late in the fourth quarter of 2010 or early first quarter 2011.

Lycoming 233 LSA Engine

On the other end of the spectrum, Lycoming announced it is now taking orders for experimental non-certified versions of its 233 series Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) engine. "The 233-LSA series in an important new engine in Lycoming's product line, meeting the needs of the growing LSA market," says Michael Kraft, Lycoming senior vice president and general manager. "The engine is light and capable of running on unleaded automotive fuels as well as aviation gasoline.

Introduced at EAA Airventure 2008, the engine features dual CDI spark ignition, an optimized oil sump, a streamlined accessory housing, hydraulically adjusted tappets, a lightweight starter, and a lightweight alternator with integral voltage regulator. It has a dry weight of 213 pounds including the fuel pump and offers continuous power ratings up to 115 horsepower at 2800 RPM.

FMI: www.lycoming.com