Aspen Avionics Announces New Features and Functions for the Evolution E5 Electronic Flight Instrument (EFI)

Aspen Avionics announces new features and functions for the budget-friendly Evolution E5 EFI. When introduced in 2018, the E5 EFI combined an attitude indicator plus DG/CDI into a single display. After receiving feedback from operators and installers, Aspen responded with this new software release for those who prefer a more traditional HSI.

Aircraft owners who already own Aspen’s Evolution E5 can update their current display through an Aspen authorized dealer who will enter the change with a logbook entry. New E5 displays will begin shipping immediately with the HSI feature.

To add even more capability and utility to the E5 EFI, Aspen has also developed the following new optional software features:

• True Air Speed (TAS)
• Outside Air Temperature (OAT)
• Wind direction and speed
• WAAS GPS mode annunciations.

The STC’d non-TSO baseline Evolution E5 consolidates attitude indicator plus HSI into a single display with a rechargeable backup battery. It also includes Global Positioning System Steering (GPSS), air-data computer and attitude heading reference system (ADAHRS). Additionally, the Evolution E5 enables owners to remove their vacuum system and other backup indicators. 

“The feedback from our customers was clear, and we listened. We replaced the CDI with a traditional HSI and added the additional optional software features in this latest E5 release,” says Mark Ferrari, vice president of sales and customer support. “This affordable and highly capable glass flight display offers an economic means for aircraft owners to remove outdated and high-maintenance vacuum systems and air-driven gyros for the approximate cost of steam gauge overhaul.”

Like all Aspen displays, the Evolution E5 EFI is configurable, upgradeable and affordable. As the pilot’s needs grow, the E5 can also be converted to the Evolution Pro MAX which enables owners to add software options like Synthetic Vision and Angle of Attack. Unlike other standalone systems, Aspen’s versatile design and open architecture provide owners a cost-effective path to upgrade their panel without unit replacement or investing in a new installation. 

The Evolution E5 EFI is approved for IFR flight when installed with a panel mounted IFR GPS. When installed without a panel mount GPS, the E5 EFI is approved for VFR flight only.