In the Ventus 2cxM Schempp-Hirth provides a self-launching
high-performance sailplane, which, in terms of flight performance, handling
and noise emission, meets the ideal image of the present day so extremely
well that it hase enjoyed great interest ever since the first 
development
stages. It is powered by a newly developed liquid cooled 37 kW two-cylinder,
two-stroke SOLO engine (type 2625-01). The engine and its exhaust manifold
remain inside the fuselage (except the radiator), so that the propeller,
thanks to the less disturbed airflow, has a higher degree of efficiency.
Power transmission is by means of a multi-V-drive belt
(reduction ratio 3:1), which is routed inside a hollow noise-absorbing
carbon fiber pylon. An electrical spindle drive swings the latter up and
down via a toggle joint system.
The remarkably small size of the engine bay was made possible
by a special TECHNOFLUG composite propeller. In its retraction one of the
two blades is forced by a yoke to fold up in a space-saving manner and
is unfolded by spring force during extension.
The power plant system is controlled via an ILEC multi-function
unit, fuel shut-off valve, throttle and a special prop arresting device.
An
automatic cold start mixture control is standard. Both the power plant
and avionic batteries are recharged by a generator.
The wing planform is optimized for either span, and in
conjunction with a new airfoil section, which was developed especially
for the Ventus 2 models, results in significantly higher L/D values as
compared with those of the predecessors.The Schempp-Hirth specific wing
geometry with multi-stage swept-back leading edge, two-stage bent-up 18
meter tips, flaperons over almost the full span and a very light control
system result - even with very high wing loadings - in phenomenal handling
qualities in circling and low speed flight, which were formerly thought
impossible. In so doing, the Schempp-Hirth design team, along with Dr.
Mark Maughmer and Karl-Heinz Horstmann, who designed the new 18 meter tips,
and Luek Boermans who designed the new tail airfoil, have designed a totally
new 18 meter Ventus 2 !!
Apart from some reinforcements in the fuselage for the
power plant 
system,
the airframe is the same as for Ventus 2cx sailplane. Operation with
the engine removed is permissible, as is participation in FAI 15 m Class
contests by using shorter outer wing panels. These may also be retro-fitted.
Thanks to the ingeniously selected separation point of the wing panels
and their low weight, the rigging can easily be done by two people. All
controls hook up automatically.
Apart from taking off an its own power, the Ventus 2cxM
may, of course, also be launched by aerotow and, with a further towing
hook fitted, by winch. The undercarriage is sprung. The large 5.00x5 main
wheel provides far a good ground clearance and, because of the more favourable
angle of attack, for shorter take-off runs. A steerable tail wheel and
wing tip wheels (removable) may be obtained as an option.
