On the May 2002 Robinson Flight Safety course, Frank as usual gave the first 45 minutes briefing. Ref the improved power version of the '44, he seemed pretty confident that it would fly.
The requirement came out of some hot and high operators of the R44 that were asking for more power. Their engineers looked at many ways of providing same and seem to have firmed up on a positive maybe of valve changes and fuel injection which adds 30-35 bhp. Unfortunately it will be around 55 lbs heavier to give an AUW of 2500lbs, but the power excess is worthwhile. Fuel burn looks about the same.
When pressed on costs, Frank was cautious and simply suggested that it would cost more. He said that the standard R44 will still be produced for those of us that do not need the extra performance.
My two cents...