Diamond Aircraft announced their newest design, a four seat, retractable gear twin-engine aircraft, by displaying the actual prototype at the recent Berlin Airshow. The new aircraft, designated the DA42 "TwinStar", complements Diamond's current 2 and 4 seaters and is designed for flight-training as well as personal and business use. The new twin offers familiar Diamond characteristics including dual control sticks, all composite construction, low stall speed, excellent performance, low fuel consumption, and unparalleled visibility. The aircraft is designed to the very latest airworthiness standards and features numerous active and passive safety features.
The TwinStar is powered by a pair of turbocharged diesel Thielert Aircraft Engines that are designed to operate on both automotive diesel and Jet A1 fuel. This engine recently received JAR-E certification and has been testing in Diamond's DA40tdi, which is slated for European certification later this year. Modern pilot workload-reducing features include electronic fuel management, automatic prop control and auto-feather. Low engine noise emission, excellent climb performance, and slow turning propellers combine to set new standards in low noise signatures. Fuel economy is simply unparalleled. Conventional powerplants may be offered as well, but at this time such plans have not been finalized.
The performance of the 270 hp TwinStar sets new standards in this class. Projected performance offers over 1400 mile range, 180 ktas cruise at 9 gph total, 203 ktas at 12 gph total at 12,000 ft, useful load of over 900 lbs plus full fuel, and a sea level climb rate of over 1700 fpm. Single engine performance will redefine the safety margins in this class. With a projected base IFR price under US$360,000, and low operating costs, the TwinStar offers a realistic and safer alternative to high performance singles.
Optional equipment will include a glass cockpit, oxygen system and anti/de-icing.
First flight is scheduled for September 2002, with initial deliveries in early 2004.
You can see the new DA42
Here