Hi, I found this picture courtesy of the Robinson forums:
Does anybody have any information about it, it's exciting news if genuine but there seems to be a little doubt?
Having looked at the bigger version at the Robinson forum I can only say to my entirely untrained eye that it just doesn't look right. The cockpit seems to be relatively in focus whereas the mast doesn't, it looks to me like it's been chopped and pasted on.
My wings are like a shield of steel.
aviator1:Does anybody have any information about it
Does nobody use Google anymore?
From the original RR press release back in March:
Orlando, FL: Rolls-Royce, a world-leading provider of power systems and services, will supply a new turboshaft engine to power Robinson Helicopter Company’s new R66 rotorcraft, it was announced today at Heli Expo.
The new RR300 engine represents a major step forward in the helicopter industry by providing 300 shaft horsepower at takeoff, excellent hot and high performance and outstanding value. The RR300 makes Rolls-Royce turbine power available in the lower shp range.
The new R66 model, a five-seater, is Robinson Helicopter Company’s first venture into gas turbine-powered rotorcraft and will complement the company’s existing line of piston-powered aircraft.
Rolls-Royce expects FAA type certification by 2008 with full-rate production to follow. Under the agreement with Robinson Helicopter, Rolls-Royce will provide several hundred RR300 engines in upcoming years.
Vidi, Vici, Veni. I saw, I conquered, I came.
Quick check of the FAA registry reveals its offically registered as an R66 c/n 0001, be interesting to see when RHC make their official statement official images of the R66