Czech startup Zuri has selected Norway’s EdgePerformance to supply a modified Rotax 912 ULS piston engine for the latest technology demonstrator of its hybrid-electric, uncrewed VTOL cargo aircraft. Adapted to drive an onboard generator rather than a propeller, the 124.7-hp powerplant has completed an initial idle run in Prague, with flight testing planned for early 2027.
EdgePerformance revised the engine’s cooling arrangement for generator operation. The configuration contains no components covered by the US International Traffic in Arms Regulations, potentially expanding Zuri’s access to international civil and defence customers.
The powerplant can use premium automotive gasoline and ethanol blends of up to 100%. Although 100LL avgas is also possible, lead deposits would reportedly halve service intervals. Zuri plans to display the engine at the Future Forces Exhibition & Forum in Prague before increasing testing.
The planned aircraft will combine vertical take-off and landing with wing-borne cruise, using batteries and the piston-engine generator to supply electric propulsion. Its design target is a 253-pound payload and a range of up to 369 nautical miles, or 309 nautical miles with a 30-minute energy reserve. Deliveries are targeted for 2029, while Zuri is discussing potential early applications with civil and defence customers.
Zuri founder and chief executive Michal Illich said selecting an established engine would allow the company to concentrate on the aircraft’s electrical architecture, flight controls and airframe. The demonstrator remains in development, and its performance figures, first-flight schedule and delivery target have not yet been demonstrated.