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King-Bugatti U-16 Engine, 1919. Creator: Duesenberg Motors Corporation
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King-Bugatti U-16 Engine, 1919. Creator: Duesenberg Motors Corporation
Ettore Bugatti designed the prototype of this engine in France during World War I. The U.S. Governments Bolling Commission, established to acquire European military aeronautical technology that could be built in America, purchased it because of its high performance potential and ability to mount a 37 mm cannon that could fire through the propeller hub. Duesenberg Motors was selected to produce the engine. Engineer Charles B. King and his team made significant changes to correct technical problems and make the engine suitable for U.S. production methods. Renamed the King-Bugatti, it passed its 50-hour military test in October 1918. Production was just beginning when the war ended. Duesenberg manufactured about 40 King-Bugattis by early 1919. None are known to have powered a U.S. aircraft
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Media ID 23877385
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Air And Space Museum Air Transport Aircraft Charles B King Engine King Charles B Nasm National Air And Space Museum Propulsion Propulsion Reciprocating Rotary Reciprocating Motion Rotary Engine Charles B Duesenberg
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the remarkable King-Bugatti U-16 Engine, a groundbreaking creation by Duesenberg Motors Corporation in 1919. Originally designed by Ettore Bugatti during World War I in France, this engine caught the attention of the U. S. Government's Bolling Commission due to its exceptional performance capabilities and unique ability to accommodate a 37 mm cannon that could fire through the propeller hub. Recognizing its potential, Duesenberg Motors was entrusted with producing this extraordinary engine for American use. Under the guidance of engineer Charles B. King and his dedicated team, significant modifications were made to address technical issues and adapt it to suit U. S. production methods. Consequently, it was renamed as the King-Bugatti. In October 1918, after successfully passing a rigorous 50-hour military test, production of these engines commenced; however, their deployment on American aircraft never came to fruition as World War I concluded shortly thereafter. Despite not being utilized during wartime operations, Duesenberg managed to manufacture approximately 40 units of this pioneering engine by early 1919. Today, none are known to have powered any U. S. aircraft. This photograph serves as a testament to both technological innovation and historical significance within aviation history. Preserved at the National Air and Space Museum (NASM), part of the Smithsonian Institution in America, it stands as an educational artifact representing an era when scientific institutions like Duesenberg Motors played crucial roles in advancing transportation technology for military purposes.
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