Microturbo Completes First e-APU Test Run

Microturbo’s new auxiliary power unit, dubbed the e-APU, made its first run on a test bench in Toulouse, France, late in December. According to the Safran subsidiary, initial tests have been successful. With an electric power output of 15 to 90 kWe, the e-APU is targeted at new business aircraft and helicopters. The test program will continue throughout this year, notably to demonstrate a start-up ceiling of 41,000 feet. Certification is pegged for early 2012.