Carson have replaced the lift frames with stainless steel which has effectively re-lifed the aircraft and allowed an increase in MAUW.
Open architecture and ethernet/databus could save 1000lb of weight (a trial mk4 has reduced by 700lb already).
Summary of Carson Changes:
Latest variant of GE 'gnome' with 1800shp.
Carson MRB and bi-filar.
5 balded tail rotor with Carson TRBs.
Stainless Steel lift frames,
Glass Cockpit.
Result:
ISA + 30 increase of max torque of 85% to 105% (on Ng limit). Could carry twice the pax of a Melrin Mk3 in Afg on summer days.
Potential MAUW increase.
Increase in payload in order of 1000lb+
Cruise 120-140 kts.