Mehrfachantrieb

Mehrfachantrieb, also known as multiple propulsion or multi-engine, refers to a system where a vehicle or device utilizes more than one engine or motor to generate its primary thrust or power. This concept is widely applied across various industries, including aviation, maritime, and automotive engineering, as well as in specialized equipment like industrial machinery.

In aviation, multi-engine aircraft are common for enhanced safety and performance. The presence of multiple engines means that if one engine fails, the aircraft can typically continue flying and land safely. This redundancy is a critical factor in air travel safety. Furthermore, multiple engines can provide greater power for takeoff, climb, and sustained flight, allowing for heavier payloads and higher altitudes.

In the maritime sector, multi-engine configurations are employed in ships and boats for increased maneuverability, redundancy, and power. This is particularly important for vessels operating in challenging conditions or requiring precise control, such as tugboats or patrol craft.

Within the automotive industry, while most passenger cars have a single engine, multi-engine setups exist in specialized vehicles like heavy-duty trucks, some high-performance race cars, and experimental vehicles. These configurations can distribute power for better traction, increased torque, or to power auxiliary systems.

The choice of a Mehrfachantrieb system depends on the specific requirements of the application, considering factors such as power needs, redundancy requirements, efficiency, complexity, and cost.