ATR Steps Into ECO-conscious Transportation With ATR EVO

French aircraft manufacturer ATR announced that it is beginning development of the next generation of regional aircraft, the ATR ‘EVO’, to be ready for market entry before 2030.

The ATR ‘EVO’ will retain the twin-engine turbo-prop base, but featuring a new ‘eco’ design with new propellers, enhanced system, and cabin using bio-sourced materials. It will employ a new hybrid powerplant that can run on 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) as well as conventional Jet A, and they expect to capitalize on improved fuel efficiencies to sell or see close to zero emissions on SAF, and approximately 20% reduction in emissions when operating on fossil fuels.

Their aims are bold, but the reality will reveal itself once ATR has done the rounds with airlines, engine manufacturers, and system providers. A point of interest is the Request for Information (RFI) that ATR recently issued to engine manufacturers seeking input on the development of the as yet unbuilt powerplant that will need to support the 8-blade propeller system. ATR’s EVO foray in the ECO sphere joins other manufacturers seeking to appease those with a conscience in pursuing environmental social responsibility in air transportation. As echoed by ATR ECEO Stefano Bertolli “our next generation of aircraft will be a step forward in responsible flying through further incremental innovation”.

The ATR line has been a best-seller for some time, and this announcement puts other regional/short-haul/cargo manufacturers on notice that ATR intends to stick around for some time! For the underserved routes with less than 90 seats per trip or cargo hauling, ATR has been adequately filling that need for Silver Airways, Empire Airways, Mountain Air Cargo, FedEx, and the US Department of Justice!

FMI: https://atr-aircraft.com