AVIC displays a model of Aircar at an exhibition. [Xinhua]

The Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) rolled out its Aircar, a new generation of turboprop aircraft, at the Dubai 2011 Airshow this week.

The Aircar, an updated version from Y12 series, is a highly-efficient turboprop that can accommodate up to 19 passengers for short and medium-distance flights.

The aircraft's advantage lies in its flexibility in refitting and its low maintenance cost. The cockpit is equipped with Honeywell’s newly-developed Apex avionics and Pratt & Whitney PT6A-65B turboprop engines.

"We are confident in the [Aircar's] future market potential," said Li Yuhai, vice manger of AVIC.

China's business press carried the story above on Wednesday.