Franco-Italian regional aircraft manufacturer ATR unveiled plans for a new generation of regional aircraft, the ATR EVO.
The new generation aircraft will feature hybrid engines, lighter bio-sourced materials and innovative technologies “to enable significant improvements in performance, economics and sustainability.”
However, it’s not a finished project. ATR said on May 18, 2022, that it has sent a request for information to engine manufacturers to develop the new powerplant.
ATR claims the ATR EVO will offer a 20% overall fuel improvement and 100% SAF compatibility. “This means that the aircraft will emit over 50% less CO2 than a regional jet when powered by kerosene,” ATR CEO Stefano Bortoli said. “When using 100% SAF, its emissions will be close to zero.”
ATR also says the new generation aircraft will be cheaper to operate. “The ATR ‘EVO’ will be even more economical, with double-digit operating cost savings achieved in particular through 20% lower fuel burn and 20% overall maintenance cost reduction,” added Fabrice Vautier, ATR SVP Commercial.
The manufacturer hopes to launch the program by 2023, with an entry into service expected by 2030.