BRP Rotax has launched a new engine, the Rotax 912 iS, as an evolution of its popular four-cylinder, four-stroke line for the light-sport market. Designed to burn less gas without sacrificing performance or reliability, the engine is claimed to be as much as 70 percent more fuel-efficient than competing engines. The launch customer for the engine is Pipitrel, the Slovenian LSA maker, which plans to offer the 912 iS in its Virus SW LSA.
The biggest improvements in the new engine come from the replacement of the 912’s carburetor with a modern fuel injection system and digital engine control unit (ECU). The engine produces 100 hp while also boasting a 2,000-hour TBO, the same as the 912 engine. Mass production of Rotax 912 iS engines will start in May.
"The development of a four-stroke, four-cylinder 100 hp aircraft engine with a redundant electronic fuel injection system is a first in the industry,” said Gerd Ohrnberger, vice-president and general manager at Rotax’s Powertrain division. “It makes it ideal for all kinds of light sport aircraft.”
