The acquisition adds
the Centurion line of reliable, economical, electronically controlled Jet-A
(diesel/kerosene) piston engines to its portfolio of general aviation piston
engine technology. Acquired products include the certified Centurion 2.0 series
of 135 Hp and 155 Hp Jet-A engines and the certified Centurion 4.0, 350 Hp
engine. The Centurions have seen nearly 3,500 units fielded during its almost
ten year service history. The addition of the technologically advanced Jet-A
fueled piston engines provides a global fuel capability that AVIC International
believes will accelerate emerging market adoption of piston powered aircraft.
Although the
acquisition is structured as an asset purchase, AVIC International will
continue its business model of thinking globally and operating locally by
remaining in the Saxony region of Germany. The assets acquired include not just
the technology, but excellent facilities and manufacturing equipment, which
when coupled with the knowledge and experience of the 200 former employees of
Thielert provides an excellent base to start operations. Further, AVIC
International intends to leverage its other international GA engine operations
at Continental Motors, Inc., Mattituck Services, Inc. and Zulu Flight Training
to deliver world class technology and service covering both gasoline and Jet-A
fueled piston engine technology.
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"This acquisition
adds excellent engine technology to the Continental Motors' brand that
significantly accelerates product offerings that can compete in the global
market," said Mr. Rhett Ross, Continental Motors, Inc. President. "We look
forward to working with our new sister company to become an integrated leader
in global aircraft piston engine products", he went on to say.
AVIC International will operate two
manufacturing locations dedicated to piston aircraft engines, including its
original Mobile, Alabama site and the new St. Egidien, Germany site. Mr.
Kenneth R. Suda, Executive Vice President of Global Operations for Continental
Motors, Inc. has been named the Managing Director/President of Technify Motors
GmbH and will be responsible for its daily operations. A full line up of AVGAS
and Jet A fueled engines covering the 100, 150, 200+ and 300+ horsepower ranges
are now available for sale for OEM applications, STC conversions and existing installations
through the Continental Motors' website (www.continentalmotors.aero).
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Continental Motors, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of AVIC International is a
leading manufacturer and service provider of certified piston aircraft engines
and components used in propeller-driven general aviation aircraft engines for
more than 80 years. AVIC International acquired Continental Motors in 2011.
More information can be found at
www.continentalmotors.aero.
-Staff Report
