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Piston engines were already replaced by something more efficient: jet engine. I dont buy that batteries are 'light enough'. More likely we will see modern jet-
by qwerta 12y ago
Piston engines were already replaced by something more efficient: jet engine. I dont buy that batteries are 'light enough'. More likely we will see modern jet-turboprops even in tiny aircrafts. Or perhaps some sort of catapult for faster take-off.
- desdiv 12y agoJet engine are actually less efficient than piston engines.
- mikeytown2 12y agoJet engines weight to output power ratio is why they are used for big planes
- sokoloff 12y agoTurbines are excellent for reliability and power-to-weight ratio specifications. They are worse than pistons for specific fuel consumption overall, way worse for specific fuel consumption at low altitudes, and capital cost specifications. Which is more important in a given application depends of course, but small turbines are terribly inefficient compared to pistons (or even to large turbines), so I wouldn't expect to see your prediction come to pass.
- qwerta 12y agoI think turboprops have lot of space for improvements. They are limited by materials and cost.