Industry professionals from the world of unmanned vehicles gathered at the UK Trade & Investment Defence & Security Organisation, London to participate in the inaugural AUVSI UK Chapter meeting.
The symposium, jointly organised by Rotron Power Ltd, featured speakers of the highest level and brought together experts, high-profile professionals, purchasing personnel from the MOD and key operators from the Army, Navy and RAF, and Covered topics such as Export Controls, UAV Research, UK ATM and UAS Operations. The event was also a fantastic opportunity to network and discuss business synergies for members.
“I am very pleased with the overall success of our first AUVSI event,” comments Rotron MD and AUVSI UK President Jim Edmondson. “The event gave everyone the opportunity to debate the future of unmanned systems, learn about the latest developments, explore market opportunities and discuss different business models. I very much look forward to working with other AUVSI members to build on the momentum, cohesion, confidence and enthusiasm generated at the event and to continue to champion the value of these types of AUVSI events.”
Posted on Monday 22 April 2013
The Parajet Team dominate the top of the league after the first leg of the British Paramotor League event Ric Womersley and Dean Eldridge both finishing on the podium, closely followed by Phil Jennings in fourth.
Under blue and sunny skies, the British League kicked off this weekend at the Boston Aerodrome, Lincolnshire and saw 12 pilots compete. Having just returned from 2 months travelling abroad, current British Champion Dean Eldridge finished the first day in a favourable position having made a good start in the precision based tasks; his speciality. Fellow Parajet team pilot Phil Jennings also showed blistering pace but was deducted points after turning the wrong way on the slalom course, promoting new team member Ric Womersley to second place, despite having only receiving his Zenith a few weeks ago.
Sunday morning brought more good weather and an early start. With the day’s events no longer about speed and precision the pilots faced the navigation and economy tasks. Flying the Zenith Top80, Phil Jennings came into the fore and placed second in the navigation and eco-distance tasks, but a few silly mistakes on the ‘breadcrumb’ task costs him points! Despite the heavier engine and smaller wing combination negating Dean’s first day advantage, his championship winning skill kept him in the running and on path for the win. Going into the final task, only a few point separated the top three pilots with both Dean and Ric in the running. Unfortunately for Dean, strong cross winds caused a mistake and a small fall during a spot landing costing the British Champion maximum points. This passed the advantage to the cool, calm and collected Ric, who underlined his place in the team with a perfect landing that pushed him through on points.
The final result for the weekend saw Parajet Team pilot Ric Womersley taking joint first place alongside 9 times British Champion Michel Carnet, with Dean Eldridge finishing in second and Phil Jennings in fourth. A great end to the weekend, and a fantastic start to the season. The Team are now focused on the French Nationals and Slalomania in two weeks time.
Also scoring some solid points on his debut was Parajet customer Clive Freeman, flying a Zenith Thor 200. Clive suffered some unexpected technical issues and unfortunately withdrew from the competition.
Posted on Friday 15 March 2013
Parajet are pleased to announce that we are now shipping the Zenith fitted with the new Polini Thor 130 engine. The 130 replaces the popular 100cc model and promises an increase in horsepower at lower rpm alongside greater reliability and a more comfortable performance use. The Thor 130 weighs in at 13.8kg and comes with the manual Flash start with an electric starter as an option.
Parajet Team pilot Dean Eldridge has spent the last month travelling around and filming the remote islands of Thailand and the Philippines with Brazilian director Sylvestre Campe, the perfect environment to put the Polini Thor 130 engine through its paces.
“With some difficult take-off scenarios and with 95 percent of my airtime planned over water, I knew I would need something with reliability and a good dose of power,” Explains Dean. “I’m flying the Polini Thor 130 with the Walbro carb and having spent hundreds of hours flying both the Thor 100 and 200 engine, the 130 seems to combine all the positive elements of both. It is the same weight and physical size as the Thor 100 which makes it very manageable to travel around with, the Zenith breaks down into a Peli case and the 130 slots straight in, no bother. The 130 gives a more friendly power delivery and is very smooth but there is definitely a bit more push into the bargin. So far, the 130 has coped incredibly well with the low-grade fuel we have been using out here, with fuel consumption returning 4-5 litres an hour flying with a fast 22m wing.”
With more filming still ahead and the extended exposure to salty sea air and the occasional splash from a foot drag, the next month will give a final test of the components of the engine and its reliability.
“I am really putting this engine through the mill and so far everything still looks as good as new,” continues Dean. “With a little help from some protective spray and testament to the great build quality and enamel coatings of many of the exposed components, the Thor 130 is an impressive piece of kit and works fantastically in the Zenith Chassis. Hopefully the coming month will be trouble free and the internal parts stay in equally good condition as the external.”
For more information on the Zenith Polini Thor 130, please contact us at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or call +44 (0)1747 830 575
Posted on Thursday 14 March 2013
Rotron Power is proud to announce the appointment of MD Jim Edmondson as President of theAssociation for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) UK Board. AUVSI is the world's largest non-profit organization devoted exclusively to advancing the unmanned systems and robotics community. Serving more than 7,500 members from government organizations, industry and academia, AUVSI is committed to fostering, developing, and promoting unmanned systems and robotic technologies.
The AUVSI UK chapter provides support and advice to the UK and European unmanned vehicle community from the large defence primes to the small independent vendors and research institutes.
“I am very pleased and honoured to be appointed President of AUVSI UK,” comments Jim Edmondson. “I am very excited to work towards bringing key players within the unmanned systems market together; from the most cutting-edge companies, to key MOD operational personnel. I aim to build forward momentum and through forthcoming events help encourage members to make new connections, and to examine the likely implications and applications of unmanned technologies. On behalf of the membership, I would also like to thank Mr. Tim Young for his contribution as President over the past three years.”
Posted on Friday 22 February 2013
Rotron, a specialist manufacturer of advanced rotary engines for Unmanned Aeronautical Vehicle (UAV) applications, spent a busy few days attending the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) in Abu Dhabi this week. The company hosted a number of successful meetings with key members of the defence industry while showcasing its latest range of rotary engines.
IDEX, which takes place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center from February 17-21, is the largest defence exhibition in the Middle East and North Africa and is held biennially under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.
Posted on Tuesday 12 February 2013
Rotron, a specialist manufacturer of advanced rotary engines for Unmanned Aeronautical Vehicle (UAV) applications, is pleased to announce that Gilo Cardozo, Founder and Chief Technology Officer, will be the featured speaker for tonight’s HQ Lecture event at the Royal Aeronautical Society in London.
Gilo will be presenting “Rotron Engines: From Conception Through Development and into Production” which will outline the development and challenges of taking the Rotron engine line from concept through to the marketplace. Born out of extremes, the Rotron range of engines was built on the success of Mission Everest - an epic challenge that saw Gilo team up with British adventurer Bear Grylls to fly a powered paraglider over the summit at an altitude of 29,494ft - a feat many felt impossible. Gilo designed and developed a revolutionary rotary engine capable of delivering 95hp and fitted with a unique dual-fuel injector system. Rotron was born.
Today, Rotron engines provide a leap forward in rotary engine reliability and performance, offering a more compact lightweight engine with the highest power to weight ratio of any normally aspirated engine currently available.
Posted on Monday 04 February 2013
Hundreds of visitors attended the Las Candelas Paramotor Festival to try out the latest machines, talk to suppliers and pick up tips from fellow enthusiasts. Whether a seasoned pilot or a complete newbie, the Las Candelas Festival, held near Seville in Southern Spain, had something for everyone.
Pilots of all abilities flocked to the Parajet stand for an opportunity to see the new Zenith fitted with a selection of engines; the innovative design and stylish looks grabbing people’s attention. With its CNC-machined chassis resulting in the Zenith being lightweight and compact without compromising its impressive handling, it was guaranteed to be the star of the show.
Parajet was warmly received by both the organisers and visitors alike, with Sales Manager Tom Prideaux-Brune and Production assistant George DeCourcy in attendance. Both had great feedback about the Zenith’s design, and even several comments from other manufacturers that stated their belief that it was the most beautiful and best machines on the market right now.
Whilst the weather was not indicative of perfect flying conditions, the atmosphere was still buzzing. The climax of the festival took place in the local village of La Puebla de Los Infantes, where residents flock into the streets, lighting bonfires and handing out drinks and food to passersby.
All in all, the festival was a success and we look forward to attending again next year.
Posted on Friday 04 January 2013
Rotron are pleased to announce that it has successfully developed its advanced rotary engine to support heavy fuel operation for UAV propulsion.
The heavy fuel testing has shown that efficient operation with easy starting have been achieved with both the 300 and 350 engine types. The port injection EFI system utilises advanced fuel management techniques to achieve reliability in operation, high specific power output, low specific fuel consumption and reliable starting under the most extreme of operating conditions.
“We are extremely pleased with the results from our heavy fuel program,” explains Rotron Operations Manager Sam Bellefontaine. “The success of this testing helps our engine versatility while helping operating costs for customers and puts Rotron technology firmly into the UAV marketplace.”
Posted on Thursday 27 December 2012
In the run up to the Christmas break, Gilo Industries Group board were invited to take part in a very informative tour around the Prodrive factory in Banbury, Oxon.
Prodrive is one of the world’s leading motorsport and automotive technology businesses, employing 700 people at operations in the UK, India, China and Australia. Prodrive work with vehicle manufacturers and their suppliers to help develop cars for the consumer market.
“It was uplifting and inspiring to see a fellow British engineering company doing well,” comments Group CEO Jim Edmondson. “Prodrive carry out a fascinating range of activity including the assembly of a range of competition vehicles and computer operated machining. For us as a business, we can draw a lot of information and best practices from other successful companies so that we can continually improve our own operations, products and service we provide.”
Posted on Wednesday 05 December 2012
The Parajet range of paramotors are featured in this month's (December, 2012) Top Gear Magazine. A selection of photos and write-up can be found in the ‘Options List’ section of the magazine which is full of automotive objects of desire and all the latest motoring news.
Top Gear magazine is Britain’s top-selling automotive magazine and is packed with reviews of what’s new from hot hatches to people carriers, exclusive world-first features, the fastest super cars, road tests and essential price guides. The unique blend of information and the cheeky wit of Richard Hammond, James May and Jeremy Clarkson make Top Gear magazine a must-have for any petrolhead.
The article will also feature in the inaugral iPad edition of the magazine. Be sure to pick up your copy of the magazine or download it for iPad!
Posted on Friday 12 October 2012
Rotron, manufacturer of advanced rotary engines for Unmanned Aeronautical Vehicle (UAV) applications, currently has a 12 month contract requirement for a Junior Mechanical/Aeronautical Engineer for an exciting project, with potential to lead to a permanent role.
Initial responsibilities to meet project milestones will be substantially CAD drafting and production of engineering manufacturing drawings, with responsibilities expanding to incorporate design/production engineering elements on achievement of project milestones. Key initial responsibilities will include:
• Interpretation of completed CAD solid models into engineering manufacturing drawings
• Liaison with design engineers for required standard/content of manufacturing drawings, including dimensional tolerances, surface finishes and heat treatment specifications
• Document control procedures of drawing sets for manufacture.
Required Qualifications/Experience:
• Tertiary qualification in Engineering (Mechanical or Aeronautical) – equivalent industry experience will be considered
• Experience and competency in both Solidworks and AutoCAD
• Comprehensive knowledge of engineering drawing standards for manufacture of high tolerance mechanical components
• Appreciation of engineering design, specifically internal combustion engines, will be an advantage.
This is an opportunity to join a fast paced, focussed engineering team at the grass roots of an exciting new product line and demonstrate your potential to become an integral team member as the company expands and grows.
Competitive rates for highly suited candidates.
Please send your CV together with a covering letter detailing your suitability to .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Posted on Thursday 11 October 2012
Rotron UAV, the rotary engine manufacturer, is pleased to announce that it has become a member of the West of England Aerospace Forum (WEAF).
WEAF is a membership trade association that champions and supports the interests of the aerospace and defence industry in the South West of England. The forum leads the sector in delivering national supply chain initiatives, which connect the SME community to the Primes.
Posted on Monday 01 October 2012
The new Parajet Zenith paramotor is featured in this month's (October, 2012) Wired Magazine. The Zenith can be found in the ‘Fetish’ section of the magazine which showcases the latest and most desirable consumer technology and gadgets.
Each month, through thought-provoking features and stunning photography, Wired explore the next big ideas in science, culture, business - bringing readers the people, the trends and the big ideas that will change our lives.
Be sure to pick up your copy of the magazine or download it for iPad today to read all about it!
Posted on Monday 24 September 2012
Parajet spent an exciting weekend at this year's Coupe Icare Festival of Flight, the biggest ultra-light aircraft event on the paramotoring calendar.
Coupe Icare is the number one consumer ultra-light aircraft event and is held in the beautiful setting of St Hilaire-du-Touvet, France. Attracting over 80,000 people and celebrating all forms of foot-launched airsports, the 3-day event allows visitors a unique opportunity to see, try and buy the latest array of aircraft and accessories.
On the ground, Sales Manager Tom Prideaux-Brune was present to showcase the Parajet Zenith, an innovation in paramotor design. The Zenith is lightweight, with a totally CNC-manufactured chassis combined with highly responsive flying characteristics and pulled in a lot of interest from the eager and receptive crowd. Alongside the Zenith was the Red Bull branded Parajet Volution 2 paramotor with its super-strong aerofoil structure and renowned chassis.
“The festival was awesome,” comments Prideaux-Brune. “With the large number of visitors to our stand it was a great platform for us to showcase the Parajet range. It was great to interact with both new and existing customers. There was a really buzzing atmosphere and the team really entered into the spirit of the festival and enjoyed some fantastic paragliding during their downtime. A brilliant way end to a successful and busy summer for Parajet!”
Posted on Monday 17 September 2012
Parajet Team pilot Dean Eldridge led home an international field of freestyle paramotor pilots to win the World Fly Games in Metis sur-Mer, Canada. With pilots battling changeable weather conditions, the result was adrenline-fuelled racing from start to finish.
The World Fly Games is based on pure speed and precision, how a pilot can adjust to conditions and race - not only against the clock but against other participants at the same time. Launching from a fixed 50m square platform on the water, pilots travel at top speeds between inflatable pylons just inches above the water’s surface making for a spectacular and thrilling race.
The disruption caused from a confiscated fuel tank by German custom officers at Frankfurt while en-route to the games was short lived as Deano, flying his Parajet Zenith Thor 200 and Paramania GTR wing continued the form he showed at the British Championships. With the high calibre of 2012 World Champion Pascal Vallée and three times World Champion Ramon Morillas among the field of pilots, the race was by no means going to be a foregone conclusion. It was to be a war of attrition as pilots persevered with the rain, completing three slalom-style tasks on Saturday before the conditions became worse and pilots were forced to land.
As the pilots lined up for the second day of events, a decline in weather conditions made it unsafe for pilots to fly and forced its cancelation. With Dean taking first spot in all three of Saturday’s events, the Parajet Team pilot was awarded the podium ahead of Laurent Salinas in second and Paco Moyano War in third.
“It has been a frustrating weekend due to the weather conditions,” comments Dean. “Of course it would have been great to win with more tasks finished but no one would have turned down the position I was in and someone has to win, so I feel good being Champion. Despite the fuel tank issue resulting in a lack of testing, I felt confident going into Saturday with the manoeuvrability and performance of the Zenith coupled with the GTR 18. Again this proved to be a winning combination.”
Parajet International drew in the crowds at the inaugural Pentillie Festival of Speed, an event celebrating all that is good about fine cars and motorsport and set within the grand surroundings of Pentillie Castle & Estate, Cornwall.
Parajet Sales Manager Tom Prideaux-Brune attended the event and was showcasing the new Zenith paramotor alongside the Volution 2. The paramotors attracted huge interest and appreciation from the gathered crowds that visited the stand and even caught the eye of industrial designer and engineer, Lloyd Pennington, who sent us this fantastic email:
“I had the pleasure in seeing your paramotor products at the Pentillie Festival of Speed in North Cornwall today. As an industrial designer, engineer and one time pilot, I would just like to express my appreciation for the care and attention to detail, not to mention the obvious hard work you and your team have put in to bring such a beautifully designed and manufactured product to market. It lifts my spirt to see the pursuit of perfection still exists in manufacturing and design. Thank you for making my day that little bit more special.”
Posted on Thursday 30 August 2012
Gilo Industries CEO Jim Edmondson and Jessica Grant Peterkin were privileged to be invited to Number 10 to discuss the company's involvement in the GREAT campaign. The campaign launched this year by the Prime Minister's Office and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport is designed to re-affirm Britain's international reputation and showcases Britain's capabilities, as well as deliver long-term economic benefits through additional tourism, trade and education.
the campaign centres on areas of British excellence and Gilo Industries have been chosen to demonstrate the country’s advances in innovation, engineering and technology. Over the coming months Gilo Industries will be embarking on a promotional drive to highlight our involvement, so look out for some inspiring and engaging content, including stunning footage of a Parajet paramotor pitted against the McLaren 12C GT3 race car adorned with the unique ‘GREAT’ campaign livery and footage of the Norton Superbike with narration from its Creator, Brian Crighton (Rotron’s Rotary Engineer) and Gilo Industries Group founder Gilo Cardozo.
“We are very honoured to have been invited to Number 10 and be asked to take part in this inspiring campaign,” comments Jim Edmondson. “It is great to be associated with something so positive, not only for business but for our country as a whole. We are very excited to create some interesting and engaging promotional material that highlights not only the innovation and capabilities of Gilo Industries Group but those of other British companies.”
Posted on Monday 27 August 2012
Parajet Automotive has successfully completed its design and fabrication of the engine mounts and are on schedule with the development of the new SkyCar.
The initial SkyCar tests will focus on flight geometry and handling characteristics, and will be carried out using the Rotron 350efi rotary engine to power the rolling chassis. The 60hp Rotron 350efi will then be replaced with the more powerful Rotron 700cc engine, adding an extra 80hp to then power the SkyCar in both Flight and Car modes.
Posted on Wednesday 22 August 2012
Rotron Aero has confirmed a deal to supply bespoke rotary engines for the innovative new SSDR class aircraft designed by UK-based light aircraft company, e-Go Aeroplanes. The announcement follows previous plans by the UK-based manufacturer to supply its stock 294cc rotary engines.
The bespoke engine, which will be based around the Rotron 300efi rotary engine, will be exclusive to the e-Go aircraft and will feature fuel injection and early tests are showing the SFC’s are now around the same as 4-stroke engines with the same horsepower. The bespoke engine will also use manifold air-temperature and pressure to measure mass air flow to self-compensate for altitude - essentially eliminating an operating ceiling.
“I am absolutely delighted that we can now officially talk about our plans with e-Go Aeroplanes,” comments Rotron CEO Jim Edmondson. “There has obviously been a great deal of excitement about which engine will be powering this aircraft and now the announcement has been made I think everyone can see just how ambitious all parties are to make this a great aviation package. The combination of Rotron rotary technology and the e-Go’s design gives this aircraft a successful, tried and tested platform to work with for the foreseeable future and our partnership with e-Go will dramatically accelerate development plans.”
Posted on Monday 20 August 2012
With the main chassis design and manufacturing complete, the Parajet Automotive team shift their focus to the bodywork and styling of the new SkyCar.
Based on the original computer simulated concept drawings, the new SkyCar will have aggressive design and sporty looks with each area of its design fulfilling a function and its form being noticeably simple. The openness of the design will suggest lightness and simplicity while functional aspects of the SkyCar will suddenly serve aesthetic purposes in addition to their usual function. The team have already started work on an interim body kit produced using heated plastic sheets. Once the design has been approved, the production of lightweight aluminium panels will be fabricated and attached to the chassis.
Posted on Monday 06 August 2012
What do you get when you mix Paramania paramotor pilots and top class Jet Ski riders on a lazy day in the Everglades, Florida? An epic paramotor video showcasing some cool flying and some watersport madness!
In the video published by wing manufacturer Paramania, team pilot Pascal Campbell-Jones flies his Parajet Volution Custom with the Paramania GTR wing alongside fellow pilot Theron McCollough with the pair walking on water, on the Jet ski and generally doing some pretty cool and extreme stuff!
“After we met captain Ron and his team of top jet ski riders we realised instantly we just had to make a video together,” explains Pascal. “Some of the guys riding the jet skis also fly paramotor so we felt really comfortable doing some cool tricks together out in the Everglades. We were even joined by the occasional dolphin following us closely behind.”
Posted on Thursday 26 July 2012
Rotron's Kate Breach and Gilo Industries' Jessica Grant Peterkin were treated to their first ever paramotoring tandem experience with Parajet Team pilot and British Champion Dean Eldridge and they couldn't have picked a more spectacular summers evening for it.
With beautiful blue skies and a moderate breeze, the girls couldn’t wait to get off the ground and after a few deep breaths ran into the wind, taking off smoothly from a sunlit cornfield on the Dorset/Wiltshire borders.
The visibility was incredible and flying at around 2000ft was undoubtedly the best way to enjoy the breath-taking views, stretching out to the horizon. Once airborne Dean bravely handed over control of the wing, enabling the girls to experiment with a few moves, making the whole experience even more special (although possibly not for Dean).
With many different paramotors in the Parajet range to choose from, Dean decided on the Volution Custom powered by a Polini Thor 200. Its lightweight chassis is designed for enhanced handling and in-flight manoeuvrability, perfect for the thrill seeking Kate. However for Jess, the extremely comfortable Parajet lightweight harness made the Volution Custom the perfect choice for her introduction into the exciting world of Paramotoring.
The finale was an impressive fly-by and, thankfully for the girls, a perfect landing from Dean. All that remained was to celebrate their successful initiation into the world of paramotoring with a refreshing glass of wine, and where better to indulge than at the local pub whilst watching the rest of the Parajet team show off their amazing aerobatics against the setting sun. All in all, an awesome day at the office!!
Posted on Friday 20 July 2012
Rotron enjoyed huge success at this year’s Farnborough International Airshow (FIA), the world's most iconic global aviation event. Occupying a prominent position on the UKTI stand, Rotron’s Jim Edmondson, Kate Breach and Sam Bellefontaine showcased the 300efi rotary engine.
The 300efi engine block is ideally suited for UAV’s, Series hybrid cars and lightweight generators and attracted significant interest including UAV manufacturers and operators keen to build a relationship with the company.
The team were joined by Gilo Industries Group Commercial Director, Alex Tai who was keen to see the 300efi power unit firsthand and discuss propulsion system possibilities for UAV’s. Alex also consults for the Virgin Group and was one of the architects involved in structuring the Virgin Galactic deal.
Posted on Thursday 19 July 2012
Supported by Channel 5, Charley Boorman and Russ Malkin are visiting South Africa, where they have been taking part in such adventures as shark diving, abseiling down Table Mountain, and paramotoring, amongst many others.
As part of the six week expedition, adventurer Charley spent time flying a Parajet Volution 2 Macro amongst the vibrant, beautiful skies of Zulu Nyala. “It was a difficult and nerve-wracking takeoff,” explains Charley. “The flight wasn’t at all easy and you’ll see why on the finished TV show, but for now let me just say that it was an exhilarating ride and I can’t wait to do it better next time.” Before embarking on the expedition Charley had spent a week paramotor training with Parajet Team pilot Dean Eldridge near the factory in Dorset.
Exploring everything South Africa has to offer, the expedition will be shown on Channel 5 later in 2012 and follows on from the success of the Extreme Frontiers - Canada series shown in 2011.
Posted on Wednesday 18 July 2012
Parajet Automotive are pleased with the current progress of its new Skycar chassis with the new design being stronger and lighter than its predecessor.
The new chassis design which takes the genetic design of the Skycar forward from the original concept, is the result of many hours input from the Design team using professional engineering software. The new chassis, which is currently being fabricated in the factory, boast a new geometry that makes the chassis stronger and lighter than the original prototype which was based pre-built a 4x4 buggy.
Parajet Automotive are working in collaboration with sister company, Rotron, who will be providing their top-spec rotary engine to power the Skycar in land and air mades. The Rotron 700 engine is currently producing a 200hp peak and a continuous flight power of 140hp. This combined with the new chassis weight means that the new Skycar will surpass all expectations on performance.
Parajet Automotive are excited by the new chassis and will start flight testing later in the year.
Posted on Thursday 12 July 2012
North West UAV, one of the largest UAV propulsion manufacturers in the United States, took delivery of their first Rotron 300rpc rotary engine last week. The Rotron 300rpc (Rotron Pressurized Cooling) rotary engine is the first of two power units order by the Oregon based company.
The Rotron 300rpc rotary engine has set a new standard for power to weight ratios for normally aspirated cumbustion boasting 70hp all out max power, with an all up wet weight of 16.6kg. The unique and proprietary cooling system uses significantly less oil than other UAV rotary engines and gives the engine much higher performance and TBO cycles.
Rotron’s Jim Edmondson and Sam Bellefontaine visited the NWUAV headquarters in McMinnville to hand over the engine in person which were extremely well received.
Posted on Wednesday 27 June 2012
Parajet will be among the roaring engines and petrol fumes this weekend as we exhibit at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, the world’s largest motoring garden party.
The Goodwood Festival of Speed is a unique summer weekend that brings together an impossibly heady mix of cars, stars and motorsport to create the largest car culture event in the world. Taking place at Goodwood House, Chichester this weekend, the four-day event allows visitors to get up close to some of the most iconic motor vehicles and drivers. The Parajet stand, part of the Aviation Show, will include our range of new Zenith paramotors fitted with a wide variety of engines. Alongside will be the Red Bull branded Volution 2 in its stunning blue chassis.
“With visitor numbers expecting to reach in excess of last year’s 180,000, it is an ideal platform for us to showcase our new range of paramotors,” comments Jim Edmondson. “We are excited that we’re exhibiting at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, and we are looking forward to introducing our fantastic sport to visitors and answering their questions.”
Posted on Monday 25 June 2012
Wessex members were given an up lifting experience when they visited Parajet International Ltd.
Most people drive a car, or take the train, cycle or walk to work, but this is not the case at the Parajet factory at Semley where workers gain unique perspective into their products using paramotors to fly in when the opportunity arises!
Whether people fly 5 feet or 10,000 feet off the ground the paramotors are a great success in the USA where they are used to fight crime as they are much cheaper then helicopters to run. Stefan Barbaruk manager of Wessex Chambers said “It’s refreshing to see a Wiltshire based company, who are also probably the best kept secret, in the forefront of export and innovation.”
AUVSI’s Unmanned Systems North America is the premier forum for reviewing, assessing and discussing the current state of the unmanned systems market. Rotron is being represented by NWUAV for the North American market. The show runs on the 5th to the 9th of August, to book an appointment please contact the team on .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Rotron will be showcasing their Rotron 300efi rotary engine at the UKTI stand (H1/B13). The 300efi engine block is ideally suited for UAV’s, Series hybrid cars and lightweight generators. If your company would like to discuss propulsion system possibilities for UAV’s at Farnborough please ring 01747 830575 or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) to book a meeting.
Posted on Friday 08 June 2012
One of our customers had a extremely unlucky mid air collision with another paramotor. It was bad luck. He has posted the video so that others might learn from the accident.
“I decided to post the video of my flying accident to youtube over the weekend to highlight the need to carry a reserve and stay super aware of others flying around you. Feel free to share as you wish.”
He also made an interesting point “I recon the strength of the Parajet frame was a big contributor to my injuries being less than they otherwise would have been. Keep up the good work.”
If you follow cool videos on YouTube you have probably heard of Devin SuperTramp. He is currently directing and releasing some of the most viral videos on YouTube receiving millions of hits.
Parajet Team pilot Glenn Tupper has recently been involved in Devin’s latest video production, flying his Parajet Volution Custom and providing some awesome aerial footage. Check out the epic paintball fight on our Parajet TV channel. Remember to “like” and “share” the TV page wherever you can.
Posted on Monday 14 May 2012
If you have been following our posts about a project we feel very privileged to be involved with, then you will be aware of the Pushing the Limits expedition (http://www.pushingthelimits.com). This is Andy Campbell's quest to get around the world - but with a difference....
Andy is travelling around the world predominately by the use of his wheelchair. To save his arms crossing mountain ranges etc he is going to use a Parajet paramotor fitted to a specially adapted trike that we have fabricated at our factory.
Please show your support and follow Andy through his adventure, he is one of the most inspirational characters we get in the workshop and being able to support him on this epic journey is awesome for all involved at Parajet.
Here is a short clip of the “Pushing the Limits Trike” Kester has made over the last couple of months. This trike was an interesting design project as Andy needs to be able to have his legs protected and fixed as well as having the front wheel on a ‘coaster’ design. We have also fitted the rear wheels with independent disk brakes to allow steering when rolling under power (wing down).
Andy we all wish the best of luck and will be following your endeavours all the way around the world.
Posted on Tuesday 08 May 2012
At the 2nd leg of the British Paramotor League, Parajet Pilots Dean Eldridge and Phil Jennings secured 1st and 2nd place respectively. A great result for the weekend's flying.
Dean goes into the final leg and the British Nationals as the “yellow” jersey holder and carrying forward extra points. Both pilots train hard year round and these latest results definitely reflect this passion, commitment and goal. Well done guys from all the boys back at Parajet HQ.
Posted on Tuesday 01 May 2012
As part of the launch of the new Parajet Zenith paramotor - the world’s first CNC-machined paramotor - we are offering you the opportunity to book a place on one of our Demo Events.
The Zenith Demo Events to be held at Basse-Ham between 22nd and 24th June 2012 and at Parajet HQ in Semley Dorset over the weekend of the 07th and 08th July 2012, is a fantastic opportunity for you to try out Parajet’s latest paramotor design innovation. With enhanced chassis geometry and in-flight manoeuvrability the new Zenith is the future of paramotoring and capable of so much more than you ever imagined.
Places are limited for each event, so register your interest and book your exclusive place on one of our demo days now!! We will have a number of different engines available so please let us know your preference.
Here is our latest video from our recent trip to Namibia. The team headed out to Sandfontein http://www.sandfontein.com to put the Zenith through its paces. The was the first real test of the portability of the new Zenith.
“What we discovered was not only does the Zenith fly like an extension of your body, but we managed to get 3 paramotors and wings out into the Namibian desert with no more trouble than taking a couple of large suitcases.” commented Parajet Team pilot Dean Eldridge.
Posted on Monday 16 April 2012
Colin Rees and Sarn Terry visited the Parajet factory last week to pick up their brand new Volution 2 Macro paramotors in preparation for their extraordinary challenge in May.
To help raise money for Help for Heroes, the pair plan to fly the length of the country from Dover to John O’Groats! This is an audacious challenge for two guys that have only just learnt to fly paramotors, and to gain the experience, airtime and knowledge need to complete such a challenge. Parajet became the official paramotor supplier following a previous visit to the factory and will be supporting the boys throughout their flight. Please visit http://www.flight4heroes.com and pledge your support.
Posted on Tuesday 10 April 2012
The Flight 4 Life boys have done it and achieved a new provisional world record.
After starting in Townsville on February 8th, the team has encountered some of the most demanding and challenging weather conditions Australia could throw at them including rain in Queensland, flooding in New South Wales, strong winds in Victoria and opposing winds win Western Australia. Despite the challenges, the team has been able to complete the expedition in record shattering time. The current record of 8,008km held by Ben Jordan in Canada took place over an almost 4 month period of time, the Flight4Life team has been able to complete over 8,500 kilometres in approximately half the time, quite an accomplishment in the weather conditions.
“It truly has been an epic 8500km journey” said Jennings-Bates “ I think we all feel like we have gone 12 rounds with Mike Tyson and it is testimony to such a solid team that we were able to complete such a demanding expedition. Glenn has been forced to fly in conditions that many pilots would not wish to encounter”.
Donations are being accepted for the Royal Flying Doctor Service and Rally4Life, details on the two charities and how to donate can be found at http://www.theflight4life.com.
Well done BOYS from all of us at Parajet.
Posted on Wednesday 14 March 2012
Parajet, the UK based paramotor manufacturer, has announced that it will be exhibiting at this year’s Gadget Show Live, the biggest consumer electronics event in the UK. Based on the popular Channel 5 TV show, and taking place at Birmingham’s NEC from 11th - 15th April, the five-day event allows visitors to see, try and buy the latest consumer gadgets.
The Parajet stand (A125) will include the Volution 2 paramotor range, ideal for both the beginner and the advanced pilot. The Volution 2 range is lightweight, with a super-strong aerofoil structure and highly responsive weight-shift flying characteristics that have been refined to create an aircraft that is just pure fun to fly! Fitted as standard with all the optional extras such as electric start, auto-choke and an in-flight generator to re-charge the battery, the Volution 2 range is designed to be incredibly practical, easy to fly and reliable.
Alongside the Volution2 will be Parajet’s rotary-powered Cyclone range. The ultimate embodiment of innovation, performance and style; the stunning Cyclone rotary paramotor range delivers the highest power to weight ratio of any paramotor engine in the world and achieves such performance with less noise and zero reciprocating vibration.
“With visitor numbers expecting to reach in excess of last year’s 105,000, it is an ideal platform for us to showcase our range of paramotors,” comments Parajet MD Jim Edmondson. “We are excited that we’re exhibiting at this year’s Gadget Show Live, and we are looking forward to introducing our fantastic sport to visitors and answering their questions.”
Posted on Tuesday 06 March 2012
The Flight4Life expedition is making good progress in the pursuit to cover the 1000km and break the Guinness World Record for longest continuous flight by paramotor. While Mark Jennings-Bates has been grounded for a few days following propeller damage, fellow pilot Glenn Derouin has been hampered by severe and unnatural weather.
“For the past two and half years we have done an incredible amount of research and planning for the trip” comments expedition leader Jennings-Bates. “I remember one conversation where I said to Glenn this time last year, that with all the flooding in Queensland which a year ago was a one in one hundred year event, there is no way it could happen two years in a row!”
Those words have now come back to haunt the team as they fly in weather conditions that Australia has never seen. Currently, every road leading through southern New South Wales is closed and the team’s next significant waypoint Wagga Wagga, a town of 8000 people has today been completely evacuated for fear of the town’s dyke breaking under peak flood conditions.
As this epic expedition approaches its half way point, the team are encouraged by current radar images that show an overriding high pressure ridge off the coast of South Australia which they are hoping will keep skies blue and winds calm. So far the team has endured the worst weather in east Australia’s history and the worst single rainfall event since records began in New South Wales. One town has received nearly half a meter of rain in a 7 day period.
While the conditions have been challenging, the Parajet Volution 2 paramotors have been reliable. “We expected to have to be really careful with cylinder head temperatures and decided not to add a temp sensor so that the pilots could simply focus on flying if the weather turned a little rough, but in all honesty, we have had absolutely no problems at all with hot engines” said Jennings-Bates, adding “we have been really impressed”.
The team still has a long way to fly and of course an difficult transit through the Nullarbor desert which could be the first time anyone has flown a paramotor through this desolate corner of Australia…
Posted on Monday 05 March 2012
Rotron UAV have published the SFC performance graph for their 300efi rotary engine.
The Rotron 300efi rotary engine is based on the on the Rotron 200efi engine and is ideally suited for UAV’s, Series hybrid cars and lightweight generators. With its incredible power matched with reliability, practicality and superb efficiency, the Rotron 300efi signifies a performance benchmark for our customers.
Posted on Thursday 01 March 2012
For Mark Jennings-Bates the dream of achieving a new world record for the longest continuous paramotor journey is over. Having already flown close to 4,000 kilometres, the 48-year-old adventurer suffered a broken propeller after a bad launch in Queensland and has been grounded until replacements can be flown in from the UK.
Jennings-Bates is expected to rejoin fellow pilot Glenn Derouin in the air again this week but with only one pilot eligible for the potential Guinness World Record it has been a hard pill to swallow.
“We all knew it was going to take precious time to get the props here,” explains Jennings-Bates. “We had two choices, wait for a few weeks so that we could carry on as a team, or continue giving the team as a whole the best chance of success. Having spent more than two years planning this I am of course gutted, it was probably the most difficult decision I have made in my life. At the end of the day, the whole project is to raise awareness and funds for charity, so the show must go on, it is not about me personally getting a world record, although I have to admit, that would have been cool.”
The team is hoping that the challenging weather which has made progress difficult for Derouin will settle down as they get into New South Wales and South Australia, although flying through the Nullarbor desert could still present some very serious issues. Add to that the fact that this is the second wettest year on record for Australia and that New South Wales is bracing itself for its second largest rainfall event ever and it is easy to understand how the trip has been challenging!
“We have great tools at our disposal, like PredictWind.com to help us look at weather, but we did not expect to find so many micro climates in what is really a fairly flat country.” explains Derouin, “As we fly, we can be in smooth warm air one minute and then knocked around in the air by a cold dense flow that we could not predict, it is challenging flying for sure.”
Donations are being accepted for the Royal Flying Doctor Service and Rally4Life, details on the two charities and how to donate can be found at http://www.theflight4life.com.
Posted on Tuesday 21 February 2012
Rotron is pleased to announce that its 294cc rotary engine will be used to power the an innovative new SSDR class aircraft designed by UK-based light aircraft company, e-Go aeroplanes.
Rotron will be providing its fifth generation 294cc rotary engine; having a modified manifold and cooling system to deliver precise and responsive performance with power delivery that is as smooth and progressive, to power the state-of-the-art ‘e-Go’ aircraft which was the winning design in a competition held by the Light Aircraft Association (LAA) to develop aircraft that meet the new de-regulated rules in the UK.
Posted on Monday 13 February 2012
Parajet are currently supporting two intrepid pilots as they take to the Australian skies in an attempt to break the Guinness World Record for longest continuous flight by paramotor.
After more than two years in the planning 48-year-old adventurer Mark Jennings-Bates and fellow Canadian Glenn Derouin have embarked on the first leg of this epic expedition, covering almost 1000kms towards a new world record, but with a long way still to go.
“Due to various regulatory issues, we started in a bit of a rush and therefore missed a couple of weeks of training and tuning.” Explains Jennings-Bates. “The first week has been interesting. Tough weather conditions with zero wind in the mornings for launch, headwinds within an hour of flying and strong thermals by 10am. With early evening flights we are struggling with strong thermals, but ending up with a nice calm flight to our destination.”
The Flight4Life Expedition aims to raise 4 million dollars for charities to help in areas such as Africa and Central America, especially addressing issues surrounding clean drinking water, through the Rally4Life umbrella, the charity founded by Mark and his wife Jackie. Over the years, Parajet have been involved with and supported a number of charitable expeditions and we are proud that we can lend our support to these types of fundraising initiatives.
The expedition team are using the Parajet Volution 2 Macro paramotor and early indications are that the motors have been performing well in the tough conditions.
“The biggest concern for us was to watch out for over-heating the engines by running a lean mixture.” Continues Mark. “With close consultation with Parajet and some cautious tuning, we have ended up by seriously increasing the range of the motors by an extra two hours. This is a big deal for us on a few fronts. Of course, environmentally it means we are burning a limited resource more efficiently, the costs of fuel over the intended length of the journey are significantly reduced and we can cover more ground per tank of gas meaning there are less logistics and more time in the air.”
The pair have allotted three months in which to complete this audacious 9,000 kilometre journey and enter into the record books. Please visit the expedition website at http://www.theflight4life.com and pledge your support, it is an awesome cause!
Posted on Friday 27 January 2012
Parajet is proud to announce its support to Andy Campbell as he sets off from London to travel 30,000 miles around the world in a wheelchair.
By completing this journey, Andy plans to raise £1,000,000 to fund mobility equipment for people affected by spinal cord injury around the world. The route, distance and methods of travel make it a truly monumentally and unique expedition never before attempted that will hold many challenges along the way. Parajet will be supporting Andy with the design and build of a specially adapted paramotor trike which will allow Andy to fly various stages of the route.
Posted on Wednesday 21 December 2011
Parajet are pleased to announce that it has become an Official Top80 Service Centre. Starting early next year we will be offering Top80 owners the opportunity to have their engine maintained and serviced by our trained engineers at a cost of £75 inc VAT plus any parts at our Parajet workshop in Dorset.
One of our trained professionals will give your Top80 engine a full health check. We will also ensure the essential safety and performance checks are carried out. Top80 owners will also be able to purchase official high-quality Top80 parts on the Parajet Store.
Posted on Tuesday 20 December 2011
Parajet are excited to announce that customers can now purchase the Volution Custom, our highly responsive weight-shift paramotor chassis, with a choice of paramotor engines pre-installed.
You can now buy your Parajet Volution Custom with a choice of either the Bailey V5 4-stroke, Top80, Polini Thor 100 or Vittorazi Moster 185 fitted into our chassis, fuel tank and the new lightweight Parajet harness to give superb handling characteristics matched with practicality and style. For more information visit the Volution Custom page or buy your Volution Custom through our Parajet Store
Posted on Friday 25 November 2011
Today we have unveiled our new Parajet Volution Custom team paramotors. The specially commissioned paramotors will be flown by Team Parajet pilots Dean Eldridge, Phil Jennings and Glenn Tupper.
The Parajet Volution Custom offers customers the chance to take their existing engine or engine of choice and combine it with our chassis to give superb handling weight-shift characteristics matched with practicality and style to deliver their perfect paramotor. The Parajet Volution Custom comes with a choice of engine mounting plates, fuel tank and fitted with the new lightweight Parajet harness.
Deano has opted for the new Polini Thor 200 to be fitted to his striking silver Volution Custom which also has a custom fuel tank, while fellow British pilot Phil has opted for the Top80. Glenn, our new American team pilot, has also chosen the Polini but has gone for the Thor 100.
Dean Eldridge will be flying his Volution Custom in the coming weeks as he heads to Brazil to compete in the Paramotor World Fly Games. Dean will face some of the world’s best pilots at the beach of Santos (Sao Paulo) for this inaugural competition for agility and precision flying.
magine if you could have our highly responsive weight-shift paramotor chassis coupled with your existing engine or engine of choice? Well now you can!
The Parajet Volution Custom offers customers the chance to take their existing engine and combine it with our chassis to give superb handling characteristics matched with practicality and style. The Parajet Volution Custom comes with a choice of engine mounting plates, fuel tank and fitted with the new lightweight Parajet harness. For more information visit the Volution Custom page or buy your Volution Custom through our Parajet Store
Posted on Wednesday 19 October 2011
We have now launched our new Lightweight Paramotor Harness. The Parajet Lightweight Paramotor Harness is strong, lightweight and durable with enough adjustment to fit all pilots.
The use of lightweight material, coupled with slender buckles makes the harness simple and uncluttered, yet with great attention to detail with no compromise in comfort or safety. The newly designed shoulder straps connect lower down the rear of the harness.
This new rucksack-style configuration means the straps are tighter to the body pulling the load is closer to your back. Coupled with generous, breathable padding the straps make carrying your paramotor more comfortable and less likely to slip while on your back.
The higher leg strap configuration has greater tolerances for wrongful adjustment and guarantees that you will get in and out of the seat every time. The Parajet Lightweight Paramotor Harness will fit all Volution and Cyclone paramotors, so why not upgrade now? Simply buy online via the Parajet Store
Posted on Wednesday 28 September 2011
Parajet will be supporting two intrepid pilots when they take to the Australian skies this February in an attempt to break the Guinness World Record for longest continuous flight by a powered paraglider.
48-year-old adventurer Mark Jennings-Bates was anxious for an adventure to create awareness about his favourite cause, Rally4Life, as he prepares to become the first Canadian to complete the gruelling Dakar rally next year. So, to generate momentum and prepare both physically and mentally, he’s teamed with fellow Canadian Glenn Derouin in an attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records by circumnavigating the coast of Australia.
The Flight4Life Expedition aims to raise 4 million dollars for charities to help in areas such as Africa and Central America, especially addressing issues surrounding clean drinking water, through the Rally4Life umbrella, the charity founded by Mark and his wife Jackie.
Preparations are well underway for what promises to be a test of both man and machine. The pair will fly about seven hours per day, usually before dawn and at dusk to avoid the hottest conditions. The pair have allotted three months in which to complete this audacious journey.
The feat has already generated tremendous attention, and Jennings-Bates was asked recently to join Friends of Australia, a group of about 80 influential artists, athletes, business leaders and entrepreneurs asked by Tourism Australia to promote Down Under. Among the notable members are Sir Richard Branson, Lance Armstrong, chef Curtis Stone and film director Baz Luhrmann. Discussions are also currently underway to film Flight4Life for television.
Posted on Monday 26 September 2011
Team Parajet pilot Dean Eldridge put in a superb performance to finish third in this weekend’s Parabatix event at the Coupe Icare festival in St Hilaire. Six of the world’s best freestyle paramotor pilots battled it out to walk away with the coveted Icarobatix trophy.
Despite some tough competition Dean started the weekend in dominant fashion, taking the honours in the Octopus and Ring events. By the end of day one Dean had topped the leaderboard just 19 seconds ahead of second placed Alex Mateus.
As day two unfolded the Sky Racers battled hard from start to finish providing some close-fought, ground skimming aerial action with Dean eventually finishing third and Spaniard Paco Guerra taking the title; a great result for the new Paramania Action GTR wing flown by both pilots.
Posted on Friday 09 September 2011
We have unveiled our Bremont sponsored Volution 2 paramotors. The specially commissioned paramotors will be flown by Team Parajet pilots Dean Eldridge and Kester Haynes.
Bremont is a British brand designing and producing hand-made watches at its atelier in Switzerland. Only limited numbers are manufactured each year. Every watch leaving the Bremont workshop is a certified chronometer, with every movement reworked, modified, heavily tested and finished to aviation standards. All watches adhere to Bremont’s core values of precision, durability and individuality.
“We are extremely excited that Team Parajet will be flying our special Bremont-branded paramotors,” explains Parajet Managing Director, Jim Edmondson. “Bremont watches are handmade in limited numbers using the highest quality components and rigorous quality control. This is an ethos that we share in our production of paramotors and therefore it is a perfect partnership.”
Parajet Team pilot Dean Eldridge will be flying the new Bremont Volution 2 paramotor at Slalomania and Parabatix later this month.
Posted on Thursday 08 September 2011
Get ready to experience some of the best, most precise paramotoring by pre-ordering the new Paramania Action GTR, heralded as one of the best reflex wings to hit the market. To avoid any disappointment we suggest you pre-order yours with Parajet now!
Aimed at experienced pilots, the new Paramania Action GTR has been designed specifically for precision flying. The new Action GTR wing uses 100% MCJ Reflex technology and a new design concept which is fast and agile yet stable and easy to launch.
“I’m really excited about flying this new Action GTR wing,” explains Parajet Team pilot Dean Eldridge. “The Action GTR has a low aspect ratio, precise handling, an extremely fast roll rate and enhanced energy conversion, which means it’s ideal for flying round pylons and precision courses.”
Deano will be flying the Paramania Action GTR along with the new Bremont Team Parajet Volution 2 paramotor at Slalomania and Parabatix later this month.
To pre-order your Paramania Action GTR with Parajet please go to the Parajet Online Store, call +44 (0)1747 830575 or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Posted on Wednesday 07 September 2011
Parajet have announced that the launch of their new Zenith paramotor has been delayed. Development of the Zenith has come off the back of the company’s launch of the new XT172 aero-engine and Volution 2 paramotor. Faced with surprisingly strong demand for both products, Parajet have made the difficult decision to postpone the launch of the new Zenith until further notice.
With the design of the new Zenith, Parajet are reinforcing its conviction for advanced design and ground breaking innovation. With 90 percent of its parts being CNC machined, the Zenith will be a completely new paramotor designed from the ground up. Boasting many innovative and exciting features, the Zenith will be Parajet’s lightest and most compact paramotor to date; fitting into a suitcase for maximum transportability. The Zenith is a revolution, not an evolution - a radical change from its predecessors in both looks and engineering.
“We are mega-excited with our new Zenith paramotor but development is taking longer than we anticipated,” explains Parajet Managing Director, Jim Edmondson. “We strive for perfection in everything we do, without compromise and the design and development process for the Zenith is no different. We have a true passion for the sport of paramotoring and we want to make a paramotor that reflects what we feel pilots are asking for. Bringing a completely new paramotor to market is a time consuming process and we want to get it right. Perfection takes time.”
Posted on Monday 01 August 2011
Over 18 months of testing and the Rotron 200efi rotary engine is officially born, heralding a massive step for Rotron and UAV rotary engines.
With its incorporated reduction drive and starter motor as well as a one of the smallest water jackets on a liquid cooled rotary engine available from any manufacture. This feature alone reduces the overall weight of the engine. This Rotron 200efi rotary engine also has the most advanced charge cooling system operationally available.
Posted on Friday 29 July 2011
Rotron have released a new ECU and fuel injection system for our range of rotary engines.
Rotron is pleased to announce the development of its small, lightweight ECU designed specifically for the Rotron range of rotary engines. Rotron use manifold air temperature and pressure to measure mass air flow to self-compensate for altitude - essentially eliminating an operating ceiling.
Posted on Tuesday 19 July 2011
Rotron has been working on a new ECU that has allowed Rotron to run its engines on heavy fuels.
Rotron’s Chief Engine Engineer, Brian Crighton, has been working on a new ECU that has allowed Rotron to run its engines on heavy fuels. The Rotron range of UAV engines has been developed to meet the demanding requirements of the world’s military and aerospace organisations who are gearing up for heavy fuel only battlefields.
Posted on Monday 11 July 2011
Over the last month fuel injection for rotary engines has become a reality with the all new Rotron ECU and fuel injection system.
While still heavily involved in testing, results so far are proving exciting. SFC’s are now around the same as 4-stroke engines with the same horsepower. Rotron have been carrying out the tests on a bespoke 294cc rotary engine. Rotron will be releasing the fuel injection system as the standard configuration on the new Rotron 200efi and 300efi.
Posted on Thursday 16 September 2010
As development of the SkyCar continues, Parajet Automotive are offering customers the opportunity to commence preparatory flight training and get qualified to fly the SkyCar, using their newly launched paramotor quad. Sharing similar flight characteristics, the Parajet Quad is by far easiest way to learn to fly the SkyCar. Aside from the stability of 4 wheels, the Parajet Quad has a low centre of gravity, making it almost impossible to turn over.
Made with Chromoly steel construction, the Parajet Quad is incredibly strong and can be disassembled in less than five minutes for compact travel. The fiberglass axles make for amazing suspension with over a foot of ground clearance that will handle any terrain no matter how bad. With its low, adjustable hangpoints, racing seat and 4 point harness the Parajet Quad is the ideal way to learn to fly your SkyCar.
Costing 11,350GBP, the package includes the Parajet Quad, Cyclone 294cc paramotor and Paramania Taxi wing. Furthermore, Parajet Automotive are offering customers who purchase the Quad a 5000GBP offset against the final price of the SkyCar.
As part of your SkyCar package, Parajet Automotive will help you find a reputable school to teach you the fundamentals of flying the Quad and ultimately the SkyCar. To place your order please email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Posted on Tuesday 09 March 2010
Parajet Automotive will be showing the aggressive design and sporty looks of the Skycar at this year’s Gadget Show Live exhibition taking place at the NEC Birmingham on 7th-11th April 2010.
With minimum weight, dynamic handling and peak performance, the Skycar is the ideal candidate for demanding terrain or sand dune adventures, but it’s not just an all-out off-roader. By unpacking a special nylon wing and unfurling it on the ground to the rear, the Skycar is ready to take to the skies, its powerful propellers thrusting the buggy forward and provides enough wing lift to take off at just 45mph (70km/h), from any “airstrip” longer than 650ft (200m). Once airborne, the driver uses pedals in the vehicle’s foot well to steer the Skycar by tugging cables that change the wing’s shape.
Oriented towards those who seek an adrenaline-fuelled experience, the Skycar combines a road legal car with thoroughbred aviation technology to produce the ultimate ‘Boy’s Toy’.
“We are pleased to be showcasing the Parajet Skycar at Gadget Show Live,” explains its inventor Gilo Cardozo. “It is a great platform to promote the Skycar and showcase the latest aviation technology that will be used in its production.”
The Gadget Show Live takes place at the NEC,Birmingham from Wednesday 7th until Sunday 11th April. Tickets are priced at £12.95 for a adults and £5.95 for children under 12. Kids under 5 go free. To buy tickets visit http://www.gadgetshowlive.net
Posted on Sunday 07 March 2010
Parajet Automotive have released a new video documenting last year's Skycar expedition from London to Timbuktu. Gilo Cardozo teams up with seasoned adventurer and former SAS soldier Neil Laughton as he risks his neck testing his latest invention: the world’s first practical flying car.
Parajet Automotive has started to receive its first orders since it officially opened its order books for the Skycar last year. By signing up to the SkyCar 50 purchasing programme, customers are now able to order the Skycar and reserve one of the first 50 SkyCars to leave the production line.
The Skycar was launched to the World’s media back in January 2009 ahead of its maiden voyage from the picturesque surroundings of Kensington, London to Tombouctou. Supported by an experienced team of overland adventurers using an assortment of all-terrain vehicles including, 4x4’s, off-road motorbikes and a specialist 8x8 truck to carry supplies, bio-fuel and water, the 42-day expedition travelled through France, Spain and Morocco, and then across the Sahara by way of Mauritania and Mali, before returning home via Senegal - an intrepid journey of some 9000km.
Posted on Tuesday 20 October 2009
The film "The Flying Car" documenting the Skycar expedition from London to Timbuktu will be aired on Channel 4 tonight at 10pm as part of its Dare Devils series - a number of visually stunning films following some of the world's most extreme individuals, who risk their lives pushing themselves to the physical and mental limits of human capability.
Parajet Automotive founder, Gilo Cardozo was last seen on Channel 4 flying a revolutionary paramotor over Mount Everest with Bear Grylls. This time he teams up with seasoned adventurer and former SAS soldier Neil Laughton as he risks his neck testing his latest invention: the world’s first practical flying car.
It’s an ambitious undertaking and the pair are on a tight deadline. On the eve of their departure and in front of the world’s press they are forced into an embarrassing admission. Not only has their practical flying car not been tested to any height, the Civil Aviation Authority has decided not to allow them to fly anywhere in British skies; and so they must resort to using the Channel ferry to get them started and across to France. But there are sterner tests ahead.
How on earth will they cross the Straits of Gibraltar, or the vast expanse of the Sahara desert in their quest to prove the worth of the world’s first practical flying car? And will they make it to Timbuktu?
Daredevils :: The Flying Car will be aired on Tuesday 20th October, Channel 4 at 10pm (UK time).
Posted on Tuesday 02 December 2008
With excitment building at the factory, the Parajet SkyCar enters into its final preparations for its trip from London to Tombouctou; the 42-day expedition travelling through France, Spain and Morocco, and then across the Sahara by way of Mauritania and Mali, before returning home via Senegal - an intrepid maiden voyage of some 7000km.
The team of engineers will put the SkyCar through its paces; carrying out final design checks, re-positioning the reserve parachute for extra safety, as well as fitment of a new streamlined fuel tank to allow more room for the paraglider wing in the boot. The team will also fit a new bulk head to prevent the roar of the propeller and engine coming through to the pilots/passengers.
Posted on Tuesday 11 November 2008
Parajet Automotive is excited to announce that reflex wing supremo Mike Campbell-Jones will design a paraglider wing specifically for the SkyCar.
Heralded as the godfather of modern paraglider technology, Campbell-Jones is the brains behind the reflex wing. In the most simple of terms, a reflex wing is an aerofoil which has an elevator built into its shaping, so is auto-stable and pitch positive. This makes it the perfect paraglider wing design for the SkyCar making it easy and safe to fly. The wing will be specially design by Campbell-Jones and manufactured by GIN Gliders. The first wing is due for delivery in January.
Posted on Tuesday 09 September 2008
Parajet Automotive founder Gilo Cardozo today achieved the ultimate childhood dream by completing the successful maiden flight of the Parajet SkyCar. The flight represents another major milestone in Parajet Automotive’s quest to launch the world’s first road legal bio-fuelled flying car.
Just after 9.00am, SkyCar’s revolutionary, specially-design ‘parawing’ was unfurled and pre-flight checks carried out. With the 1000cc engine throttled up the rear-facing propellers thrust the SkyCar down the flat sands of undisclosed loaction to a takeoff speed of around 45mph, generating enough lift for the ‘parawing’ to launch the car gracefully into the air.
Once airborne, Gilo and fellow pilot Neil Laughton used the pedals located in the vehicle’s foot well to control the shape of the wing and provide steering. With a number of successful low passes completed, the two-man crew circled around and came in for a landing.
This was Gilo’s first impression as he got out of the car “Wow. This one serious machine. It’s like the ultimate kind of toy! One minute you are screaming along down the beach and next minute you are flying along in the same machine.”
The team will now prepare the SkyCar for its trip from London to Tombouctou; the 42-day expedition travelling through France, Spain and Morocco, and then across the Sahara by way of Mauritania and Mali, before returning home via Senegal - an intrepid maiden voyage of some 7000km.
Posted on Sunday 07 September 2008
With the Skycar MOT'd, taxed and fully road legal, the Parajet Automotive team are headed off to France for the first program of test flights.
Omaha Beach in Normandy (the site of the D-Day landings) will be the location of the first official flight. With the conditions looking favourable, the plan is to launch the Skycar and take it to 300ft. Everyone involved in the project is extremely excited and pleased with the preparations made for the trip and look forward to a successful test.
Parajet Automotive is part of the 