TOYOTA HAS finally acknowledged that it is developing an aero-engine based on the Vee-8 used in the Lexus automobile. US certification is being pursued jointly with Hamilton Standard, which is supplying the engine controls and propeller, and is expected by the end of 1995. The aero-engine is a compact 4litre, 24-valve, Vee-8 producing 270kW (360hp).
Toyota says that it has not decided on its plans for the engine following certification. Development began in 1989, and the engine is believed to have been flight-tested in an aircraft built for the Japanese car manufacturer by Scaled Composites.
Source: Flight International