Reliable, low-noise, four-stroke engine

You can rely upon the air-cooled, four-cylinder, four-stroke Sauer 1800 E1S engine. It has a fuel consumption of about 10.8 l/h premium petrol at 200 km/h and is also cheap to maintain. With 45 l unleaded premium petrol in the tank you have a range of 900 km and even then there's still half-an-hour's reserve left.

The carburator adapts the mixture automatically to altitude. That's why the Carat can still climb at a rate of 1 m/s at an altitude of 5000 m when the electrical fuel pump is in operation.You only have to use the throttle, choke, carburator heat and the ignition button. Even on the hottest of days and at maximum power all operational temperatures remain within their limits thanks to a clever, low-drag, cooling air routing. The engine purrs like a pussy-cat. With an external noise level of 62.7 dB(A), the Carat is one of the quietest aero planes and fulfils the requirements of increased noise protection.

Folding propeller

The new "beak" folding propeller made of glass fibre folds the blades forward against the air stream by means of two damping gas springs when the engine is shut off at speeds below 90 km/h thus minimizing drag. You simply switch off the ignition when you have cent red a thermal. After a few seconds you have a good sailplane. Blade interconnection prevents unintentional opening. The blades have adequate freedom of movement when in operation which results in a particularly smoothly running engine. When the engine is started, centrifugal forces open the propeller at once and it is immediately operational.

Retractable landing gear

After engaging the 3-position switch, the robust, leaf-spring main landing gear is retracted electro-hydraulically. The fairings fit tightly and thus ensure aerodynamic performance. The landing gear can be extended manually in an emergency. Two powerful disk brakes are operated simultaneously using a brake lever on the control stick where the lock for the parking brake is also located. The production standard landing gear warning horn sounds immediately when the air brakes are deployed and the landing gear is not fully extended. The steerable, spring-loaded tail wheel allows precise taxiing and a turning radius of about 15 m.

Good gliding performance

The wing is virtually that of the "Discus". In addition to excellent performance, the airfoil with turbulators on the lower side results in very docile stall behavior even in rain or with an insect-covered wing nose.The optional winglets improve circling performance in thermals. Grossly dimensioned Schempp-Hirth air brakes permit steep approaches and short landings. Control harmony and agility is perfect.

Suitable for trailering

Due to the retractable landing gear and the folding propeller, the Carat fits into a normal sailplane trailer. No expensive hangar space is required.

One-man assembly possible

Because of the accurate fit of the spar end guides, the wings can be fitted individually. And with the help of the optional one-man-assembly kit, you are just as fast on your own.

Comfortable cockpit

Every pilot sits comfortably in this cockpit, even with his parachute, thanks to the roomy seat, the adjustable pedals and the adjustable seat back. Cabin heating, good air-conditioning and room for a map and snack bag ensure the pilot's well-being. The instrument panel offers sufficient room for a good assortment of VFR equipment including GPS, final approach computer and transponder. Behind the seat there is enough space for baggage including tent and sleeping bag so you can take full advantage of the 145 kg baggage allowance.