Austro Engine, best known for its work supplying powerplants for Diamond airplanes, announced this week it plans to develop a new 280-hp six-cylinder diesel engine for the general aviation market. Austro will work in partnership with Steyr Motors to develop the engine, based on the Steyr Monoblock Motor M1. That engine features an integral crankcase and cylinder head that has proven robust in marine and special-vehicle applications around the world, according to the company.The new engine is intended to power two Diamond aircraft now in the works: the DA50 Magnum, a single-engine five-seat airplane, and the twin-engine Future Small Aircraft (FSA) intended for personal and utility applications.
Austro said the M1 engine is known for a favorable power-to-weight ratio, operational safety, economy and minimized environmental impact. “With the expansion of our product line, Austro Engine will further solidify its position as a producer of powerful, fuel-efficient and environmentally responsible aviation piston powerplants,” said Christian Dries, CEO of Diamond Aircraft.Austro Engine was founded in 2007 to develop and produce state-of-the-art rotary engines and jet-fuel piston aviation engines for civilian and strategic applications.Steyr Motors, a diesel engine specialist, emerged from the former Steyr-Daimler-Puch group.
