Zenith Aircraft Company will be showing its new low-wing, two-seat cruiser for the first time at EAA AirVenture. The CH 650 B model is a second-generation Light Sport Aircraft, developed specifically for Sport Pilots. It is the latest model in the Zodiac line of aircraft from aeronautical engineer Chris Heintz. This newest model offers updated features including modern new styling and a larger cabin area.
What is completely new with this factory demonstrator is forward of the firewall: a brand new UL350iS engine installation. The new engine from Belgium introduces some exciting new technology (new to light aviation, at least) with an engine that puts out 130-hp while weighing the same as the Rotax 912S engine. The UL Power engine is a horizontally opposed, four-cylinder engine with FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control): multipoint electronic fuel injection with automatic altitude and temperature compensation. Furthermore, this engine is direct drive, air cooled and fuel efficient, Zenith says. The current product line ranges from the UL260i at 97 hp to the UL350iS at 130. The firewall-forward promises builders easy plug-and-play installation available in a complete package, Zenith says.“We’ve been very impressed with ULPower and the technology that they bring to the light aircraft industry,” said Sebastien Heintz, president of Zenith Aircraft Company. “For many years our customers have been asking for lighter, more fuel efficient engines, and for modern technology such as FADEC. ULPower appears to deliver both fuel efficiency and high power to weight ratio, while also being simple, with conventional direct drive and air cooled cylinders.”
The CH 650 B is the latest updated and upgraded model in the popular low-wing Zodiac series, with a new roomier canopy system and swept-back tail, as well as many new smaller updates and conveniences. The company demonstrator is also equipped with a modern instrument panel with the latest avionics suite from Dynon and dual SkyView glass panel displays.
See the new CH 650 at the Zenith Aircraft Company Booths #640 and #641 in the North Aircraft Display Area on the AirVenture grounds, or visit www.zenithair.com.
