Polen
Special
History
In 1967
Dennis Polen began work on what was to become the fastest
four-cylinder vehicle on earth and along the way became an
aviation legend.
Construction
Like the Wright brother’s Flyer, the Polen Special was
created by individuals with no corporate sponsorship or public
financing. Also like the Wright Flyer, the Polen Special leaped
years ahead of what others thought possible at the time.
The Legend is born
The Polen Special received rave reviews when debuted at the
Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), Oshkosh air show in
1973. Dennis Polen was overwhelmed with mail from eager fans
around the world, but the reclusive builder had made his point.
The Special was not to return to Oshkosh for more than two
decades. The EAA still receives inquiries about the Polen
Special and it is the most written about experimental aircraft
ever built. The Polen legend was born.
Races / Records / Recognition
Further enhancements to efficiency have helped the Polen
Special become an unbeaten racer, a World Record holder (500 km
@ 303.5 mph) and the recipient of the Bleriot medal for
outstanding contribution to aviation. Dick Keyt and the Polen™
Special were honored to participate in the ceremony at Kitty
Hawk, SC in December 2006, commemorating the Centennial of
Flight.
Icon of Efficiency
An unbeaten race record, a World speed record and the
ability to reach 320mph with 180hp are a testament to the
efficiency of the Polen Special design, making it one of the
most recognizable and icons of efficiency in the world today.
Clearly, Efficiency is still On the Move.
Efficiency
On The Move
Following in the footsteps of the Polen Special, design studies
for the Stage3 - Advanced Efficiency Aircraft are underway.
Stage3 goals include performance improvements in fuel
efficiency, environmental impact, sound control, small field
operability and safety.
Polen Special
Photo History
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