Boston, MA, June 22, 2016 – Spike Aerospace announced today that they are evaluating several possible engine options for their S-512 Quiet Supersonic Jet. The company is currently working with two engine manufacturers and is in the early stages of discussion with a third supplier.
Spike Aerospace and the two engine manufacturers are identifying existing engines that can be modified to meet the performance and noise requirements of the Spike S-512 Quiet Supersonic Jet. “There are several engines that are very close to what we need for the S-512. As we work with multiple engine suppliers, we will have a better understanding of which one will meet our requirements best and handle the modifications that are required”, said Spike Aerospace President and CEO Vik Kachoria.
As part of this evaluation process, Spike will be working with engine suppliers to explore options for minimizing emissions and engine noise while maximizing fuel efficiency. Studies will also look into the impact of private versus commercial flight on the operating costs of the engines.
Engine evaluation will likely take six months to a year, and will ultimately result in the announcement of an engine supplier for the S-512.
Spike Aerospace is looking for low to medium bypass ratio (BPR) engines with approximately 20,000 lbs of sea-level thrust. Most modern jet engines have high BPR to improve efficiency and reduce engine noise near airport communities.
For the Spike S-512 Quiet Supersonic Jet, modifications to those engines would likely need to be made. Modifying an existing engine is likely to take three to five years, as opposed to development of a new engine, which typically takes ten years or more.
About Spike Aerospace
Spike Aerospace, based in Boston, MA, was launched in 2013 and leads a global collaboration of aerospace firms to develop the world’s first supersonic business jet. The S-512 Quiet Supersonic Jet flies 500 mph faster than any other civilian aircraft, saving travelers up to 50% of current flight times. The company believes that this will open up a world of opportunity for pleasure and business. Flying faster means being able to do more. For some, though, just getting home in time for dinner is enough.
A world-class team of over 40 senior aerospace engineers with backgrounds from leading aerospace companies are developing the high-level conceptual design and engineering of the S-512. Top aerospace firms like Aernnova, Quartus Engineering, and Siemens are providing their expertise in various elements of aircraft design, engineering, manufacturing and testing.
More information on the Spike S-512 can be found on the company’s website at https://www.spikeaerospace.com