China’s first high-power rotary engine prototype completed first ignition, developed by Changan’s subsidiary, for low-altitude vehicles
On December 19, Harbin Dongan Auto Engine, a subsidiary of Changan Automobile Group, announced that its first R05E prototype of China’s first high-power rotary engine had successfully completed the first ignition, targeting low-altitude vehicles. Mass production is planned to start in 2027.
The project was first launched on April 9, developed in collaboration with AVL, a mobility technology company for development, simulation, and testing.
According to the official introduction, the R05E single-rotor engine features a curved-edge triangular piston, along with an independent circuit dual ignition system, a low-mass eccentric shaft and balancing system, and an integrated water jacket.
Dongan further claimed the engine is adaptable to various low-altitude applications and can be used in medium-to-large manned low-altitude vehicles due to its ultra-high power density, compact size, and NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) performance.
The engine has a rated speed of 6,500 rpm and an output power of 53 kW. To reduce energy consumption, the engine also utilizes technologies such as a cast aluminum casing and NDC (nanodiamond composite) anti-friction coating.
In recent years, the Chinese government has deemed developing the “low-altitude” economy a priority, including introducing a number of policies and measures to vigorously promote the development of the low-altitude economy. The “low-altitude” economy refers to the emerging economic sector centered around activities and services conducted in the airspace below 1,000 meters above the ground, leveraging technologies such as electric vehicle take-off and landing (eVTOL).
In addition, Dongan is simultaneously developing naturally aspirated and turbocharged rotary engine products to power medium-to-high altitude UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles), in partnership with companies including ARIDGE (Xpeng‘s flying car unit, previously known as Xpeng Aeroht), Huawei, and DJI.
About Dongan
Founded in 1948, Dongan is a Chinese state-controlled publicly listed company under Changan Automobile Group that develops and manufactures automotive engines, transmission systems, and range-extender ppowertrain systems.
Source: Harbin Dongan Auto Engine
Edited 2025/12/22 21:14 – Updated Xpeng Aeroht to ARIDGE to reflect the rebranded name.
