BRP Launches The Rotax 912 iS

A new variant of the much used (and abused) Rotax 912 has been announced... this one, fuel injected. According to Rotax sources, the Rotax 912 iS engine will deliver 38% to 70% better fuel efficiency than comparable competitive engines in the light sport, ultra-light aircraft and the general aviation industry.

Enhancements include a modern fuel injection system and digital engine control unit (ECU) in order ensure optimal fuel and air mixture at any altitude for longer flight range, lower operating costs and CO2 emission reduction. The new Rotax 912 iS engine also provides a time of 2,000 hours between overhauls (TBO); the same TBO as the 912 engine.

Mass production of the Rotax 912 iS engines will start in May 2012.

"BRP maintained its commitment to innovation through the recent economic crisis to continue developing high performance and more fuel-efficient engines," stated José Boisjoli, president and CEO. 'The Rotax 912 iS engine is the result of this engagement and our commitment to always exceed consumers' expectations."

With more than 170,000 Rotax aircraft engines sold in almost 40 years, Rotax Aircraft Engines dominate the light sport and ultra-light aircraft market. With 20 authorized distributors and a network of more than 200 sales and repair centers supporting customers worldwide, BRP supplies engines to more than 80% of all aircraft manufacturers in its segment.

"The development of a 4-stroke, 4-cylinder 100 hp aircraft engine with a redundant electronic fuel injection system is a first in the industry; it makes it ideal for all kinds of light sport aircraft, generating increased opportunities in general aviation market," said Gerd Ohrnberger, vice-president and general manager, Powertrain division.

Pipistrel Aircraft served as a test bed for the engine's development. Tine Tomazic, engineer and pilot for Pipistrel Aircraft, said: "The injection system ensures the best fuel and air mixture on each cylinder at every possible altitude while delivering the same 100 hp as the Rotax 912 ULS engine, therefore producing fewer emissions. Based on these facts, I would say that the Rotax 912 iS engine is a powerful, economic and more fuel-efficient engine."

FMI: www.flyrotax.com, www.pipistrel.si