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 projetc was first launched on April 9, developed in collaboration with AVL, a mobility technology companies 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 Xpeng Aeroht (Xpeng‘s flying car unit), 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
