A small turbine engine, similar to a turboshaft, with the main shaft ending at an internal generator. Microturbine engines can be used to power hybrid vehicles electric vehicles, and as a highly reliable source of electric power for homes and businesses. Microturbines range in size from a large unit that produces a few dozen kilowatts, to a dime-sized unit created using integrated circuit photoresist techniques.
One manufacturer of microturbine systems is Capstone, which makes self-contained generating units and turbines for vehicles. Their engines use an air bearing, eliminating the need for an oil system.