Flyer

June 1999

 

"Millennium status for Wilksch aero diesel"

"Wilksch Airmotive has achieved Design Council Millennium Product status for its diesel aero engine. The lightweight kerosene burning liquid cooled engine is claimed to offer low running costs, quiet operation and a compact design.

Wilksch Airmotive was founded by engineer Mark Wilksch, a pilot, following an impressive automotive career which has included work with the Arrows Formula I Team, and Cosworth Engineering.

Wilksch's mentor and technical consultant, Mike Costin (a founder of Cosworth and experienced pilot), regards this as an important project:  "Mark is a modern, well versed engineer, with good practical understanding. His work combines technologies in a novel way, resulting in an engine which will be the way ahead for light aircraft. The best yet."

Development is focused on a 120hp version of the engine for use in homebuilt aircraft. Wilksch has an agreement with Europa Aviation.

In addition, Wilksch has set up a co-operative agreement with Atlantic Aeroengineering. It is working on the conversion of a Cessna 152 with the intention of acquiring CAA certification for general aviation use.

The Wilksch diesel runs on either diesel fuel or 20p per litre jet kerosene. Benefits include total elimination of lead emissions, coupled with substantial reductions in the output of hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide. Liquid-cooling offers the possibility of better engine management as well as quieter running."