Norton’s Rotary Engine Legacy Lives On at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2016

Despite the sudden deluge of rain, it was clear to AIE (UK) Ltd, that nothing could dampen the enthusiasm at this years’ 2016 Goodwood Festival of Speed as tens of thousands of spectators visited the world’s most exuberant UK-based motor sport event from 23-26 June.

The event theme ‘Full Throttle – the Endless Pursuit of Power’ brought racing stars and celebrities out in force to the soundtrack of roaring engines and squealing rubber, whilst hundreds of visitors browsed the latest in motor vehicle advancements and design.

Notably, amongst the celebrity turnout, Hollywood legend Keanu Reeves with his first appearance at Goodwood, showcased his latest Arch Motorcycle design project, taking inspiration from his first ever Motorbike the 850 Norton Commando.

However, Keanu Reeves wasn’t the only person debuting a new project inspired by the Norton legacy; exhibiting at the Niche Vehicle Stand, AIE (UK) Ltd showcased the latest incarnation of the revolutionary rotary engine that started life within a Norton Motorcycle.

Now equipped with ground-breaking technology that eliminates historic drawbacks of previous rotary engine design, AIE’s 650S rotary engine delivers remarkable power, performance and reliability making it an ideal powertrain for motorcycles and lightweight sports cars.

The First Low Carbon, Rotary Powered British Sports Car

As part of the AIE’s exhibition on the Niche Vehicle Stand, visitors were able to view a beautifully crafted Westfield Sportscar integrated with AIE’s 650S rotary engine as the primary power unit. This unusual combination is part of a collaborative project involving Westfield Sportscars, AIE (UK) Ltd and Axon Automotives to develop a lightweight but powerful sports car that meets the low carbon challenge.

Surprised to learn that a rotary engine had been chosen for the substantial task of producing high power with low emissions, many visitors stopped to question the potential of the project.

AIE representatives were prepared, explaining the full capabilities of their patented new technology that enables AIE rotary engines to deliver exceptional power but with significantly reduced carbon emissions due to its liquid-cooled SPARCS system and unique lightweight powertrain that occupies less than 50% of the under bonnet volume.

The Westfield rotary powered sports car will soon be tested in its first ‘ride and drive’ debut – to be first to witness this exciting new advancement in motor sport history make sure you join us and many other rotary engine enthusiasts on Twitter and LinkedIn or visit our website at www.aieuk.com/news.