The performance of gas turbine engines suitable for ground vehicle applications is examined. Two basic cycles are discussed-the simple turbine engine cycle, and the regenerated turbine engine cycle. The simple cycle presents the high power to weight and power to volume potential of the gas turbine in its basic form. The regenerated engine with variable power turbine geometry presents the simplest turbine cycle capable of competing with the best piston engines on the basis of fuel consumption. The effect of the choice of cycle parameters and the effect of component performance on engine performance trends is presented, and the overall engine performance is examined as it relates to the vehicle.
