Who is BLACKHORSE MODEL?

Black Horse RC Aircraft: Is the Brand Worth It?

A Black Horse RC aircraft is an excellent choice if you are looking for a traditionally built wooden model with a high level of finish, and a range that can accompany you well beyond a simple recreational aircraft.

Black Horse Model is a Vietnamese manufacturer founded in 1999, specializing in RC aircraft built from balsa wood and plywood. Its range includes electric, glow, gasoline, EDF and turbine-powered models.

I particularly know Black Horse for its characterful scale models.

A P-47 Thunderbolt, a Spitfire, a Piper Cub, an Edge 540 or an L-39 Albatros naturally offer completely different flying experiences. That is precisely what makes the range interesting.

Before choosing a model, I therefore recommend looking at the brand as a whole.

Origin, construction method, different aircraft categories, available power systems, required flying skills and, above all, the actual cost of a fully equipped aircraft should all be taken into account.

Key points to remember

• Black Horse Model is a Vietnamese brand founded in 1999, specializing in traditionally built RC aircraft, particularly balsa and plywood models.
• Many models are supplied as ARF, Almost Ready to Fly. The fuselage and wings are largely pre-built, while the radio system, servos and power system still need to be installed.
• The range extends from small electric aircraft weighing around 1 kg to large aerobatic aircraft, warbirds and turbine jets weighing more than 14 kg.
• Scientific MHD has been the official and exclusive Black Horse Model distributor for France and Belgium since 2012. On our website, you will find 99% of the Black Horse aircraft range, with prices among the most competitive in Europe.

Who is Black Horse Model?

Black Horse Model is a Vietnamese manufacturer of RC aircraft, founded in 1999.

Over the years, the brand has developed a very extensive range, with a strong focus on wooden aircraft, scale models and large models.

Black Horse is associated with Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

The manufacturer develops aircraft for the international market and now offers several categories: sport aircraft, aerobatic aircraft, scale models, warbirds, biplanes, gliders and jets.

What I find interesting is the consistency of the range. Black Horse has not focused exclusively on a collection of easy-to-produce models.

The manufacturer remains committed to traditional construction techniques.

The current range includes both relatively compact aircraft and large scale models designed for experienced pilots.

When was Black Horse Model founded?

Black Horse Model was founded in 1999.

This date is useful for putting the brand into perspective.

It has several decades of experience in RC aircraft and has continuously developed its manufacturing techniques and product range.

The brand started with wooden models before expanding into large scale aircraft, aerobatic models and jets.

Today, the catalogue includes models such as the Edge 540 V3, Extra NG, P-80 Shooting Star, Viper Jet, L-39 Albatros and SU-30.

Where are Black Horse aircraft made?

Black Horse aircraft are manufactured in Vietnam, in Ho Chi Minh City.

The instructions supplied with many models explicitly state “Made in Vietnam”.

Vietnamese manufacturing is part of Black Horse's identity. For me, however, this is not the most important selection criterion.

What matters more is the way the aircraft are designed and built.

And this is where the brand has a very distinctive philosophy: wooden construction, a high degree of prefabrication, decoration and scale detailing.

Why does Black Horse use balsa and plywood?

Balsa wood and plywood make it possible to build lightweight, rigid aircraft structures while reproducing the shapes of full-size aircraft with a high level of realism.

This is one of Black Horse's main characteristics.

If you are used to EPO foam aircraft, you will notice the difference immediately.

A foam aircraft is often easy to handle, quick to assemble and relatively tolerant of minor impacts. A balsa construction, on the other hand, requires a little more care.

In return, you get a more traditional structure and particularly attractive shapes for scale models.

Balsa is used where low weight is important. Plywood is used where greater strength is required.

It can be found, for example, around:

• the engine mount;
• wing attachment points;
• landing gear;
• servo mounts;
• structural connection points.

This construction method also allows repairs using traditional wooden model-building techniques.

Are Black Horse aircraft fragile?

A balsa construction is not designed to be handled roughly, but it is perfectly suitable for an RC aircraft that is properly used and maintained.

This distinction is important.

Balsa is lightweight because of its low density. Therefore, for example, you should avoid placing a wing on a rough surface or handling a large fuselage by a delicate area.

I recommend transporting the models using suitable supports.

On a large aircraft, I pay particular attention to protecting:

• the wing tips;
• the landing gear;
• the rudder;
• the control linkages;
• the canopy;
• protruding decorative elements.

A wooden aircraft can be repaired. However, a good repair always starts by avoiding unnecessary damage.

What does ARF mean on a Black Horse aircraft?

ARF means Almost Ready to Fly: the airframe is largely pre-built, but the aircraft still needs to be equipped and set up before its first flight.

This is something you should understand before buying.

When you open a Black Horse ARF kit, you do not start with a pile of balsa strips.

Most of the major construction work has already been completed.

Depending on the model, you may find:

• a built fuselage;
• completed wings;
• prepared tail surfaces;
• covering already applied;
• pre-applied decoration;
• partially prepared control linkages;
• various assembly accessories.

However, work remains to be done.

What still needs to be installed on a Black Horse ARF?

As a general rule, you will need to install the servos, radio system and power system, together with other equipment depending on the model.

Depending on the aircraft, you may need:

• motor;
• ESC;
• battery;
• propeller;
• servos;
• receiver;
• receiver power supply;
• landing gear;
• braking system;
• control linkage accessories;
• assembly consumables.

The exact contents should always be checked against the specific model's instructions.

I also recommend that you do not order the power system separately before checking the exact aircraft reference.

Two models with similar names can have completely different requirements.

Are Black Horse aircraft well made?

Build quality is one of Black Horse's strengths, particularly on scale models and large aircraft.

The brand pays considerable attention to the appearance of its aircraft.

Depending on the model, you may find:

• decorated covering;
• painted engine cowlings;
• canopies;
• cockpits;
• pilot figures;
• instrument panels;
• retractable landing gear;
• surface details;
• scale decorations.

The L-39 Albatros illustrates this philosophy very well, with its detailed cockpit, pilot figure and retractable landing gear.

There is one point where I remain cautious: a mass-produced wooden aircraft is not a precision component made from a completely homogeneous material.

Balsa is a natural material.

The covering may also occasionally require a small amount of adjustment.

What should I check when a Black Horse aircraft is delivered?

I recommend checking the entire airframe before beginning the assembly.

Here is my checklist:

1. Check the wings.
2. Inspect the fuselage.
3. Check the tail surfaces.
4. Inspect the hinges.
5. Check accessible glue joints.
6. Check the control linkages.
7. Inspect the landing gear.
8. Check the covering.
9. Check the accessories.
10. Compare the contents with the instructions.

This inspection is particularly important with large models.

A small issue that is easy to correct on a 1 kg aircraft can become much more significant on a 10 or 15 kg aircraft.

What types of Black Horse aircraft are available?

Black Horse offers sport aircraft, aerobatic aircraft, civilian scale models, warbirds, biplanes, gliders and jets.

It therefore makes little sense simply to search for the “best Black Horse”.

The better question is:

Which Black Horse aircraft matches my flying skills and preferred type of flying?

Which Black Horse aircraft is suitable for aerobatics?

The Edge 540 and Extra NG ranges are particularly interesting if you are looking for an aerobatic aircraft.

The Black Horse catalogue includes several versions of the Edge 540 V3, with different sizes and power systems.

For example, versions are available with:

• 74 inches, for approximately 30 to 35 cc engines;
• 85 inches, for approximately 60 cc engines;
• 104 inches, for approximately 120 cc engines.

The Extra NG range follows a similar approach, with models in different sizes.

This makes it easier to choose an aircraft that suits your flying field and experience level.

I find this approach more interesting than a range made exclusively of large models.

Which Black Horse warbirds are available?

Black Horse offers an extensive selection of warbirds based on historic military aircraft.

Depending on the reference and availability, you will find models such as:

• P-47 Thunderbolt;
• Spitfire;
• P-40 Warhawk;
• F4U Corsair;
• A6M Zero;
• Bf 109;
• FW-190;
• Stuka;
• Heinkel He 111.

The P-47 Thunderbolt is particularly interesting for understanding the development of the range.

A compact electric P-47 can weigh around 1 kg.

Another Black Horse P-47, however, has a wingspan of more than 2 metres and requires a much more powerful power system.

Although they represent the same full-size aircraft, the flying experience is completely different.

You should therefore never choose an aircraft based solely on its model name.

What is the difference between a small and a large Black Horse warbird?

Size has a major influence on flight characteristics, weight, power system, transport and the level of experience required.

Let's take two P-47s as an example.

The P-47 EP BH118 has a wingspan of approximately 1,050 mm and weighs around 1 kg according to the instructions, depending on the configuration.

The P-47 BH36 has a wingspan of approximately 1,620 mm, a significantly higher weight and can be fitted with gasoline or high-power brushless systems.

The range goes even further.

A P-47 with a wingspan of more than 2 metres can weigh over 10 kg.

You should therefore never choose an aircraft based solely on its name.

Which civilian Black Horse aircraft are available?

Civilian Black Horse aircraft are aimed at modelers who appreciate realism and a more relaxed flying style, with numerous replicas of real aircraft.

The range includes models such as:

• Piper;
• Pilatus;
• Fieseler;
• Zlin;
• PZL;
• bush aircraft;
• trainer aircraft.

The Piper PA-18 Super Cub is a good example of a model for pilots who enjoy light aircraft and realistic flight characteristics.

The Fieseler Fi 156 Storch, on the other hand, belongs to a completely different category.

With a wingspan of around 2.85 m, this is a large scale aircraft. The instructions specify a 35 cc gasoline engine and a weight of approximately 8 kg.

An aircraft of this size already requires appropriate planning and preparation.

Which Black Horse aircraft are electric?

Black Horse offers several electric aircraft, particularly compact models and electric EDF jets.

The P-47 Thunderbolt EP BH118 is a good example.

The instructions specify, among other things:

• wingspan: approximately 1,050 mm;
• weight: approximately 1 kg;
• battery: 3S 2,250 mAh LiPo;
• ESC: 40 A;
• brushless motor KMS 2814/05.

The Spitfire EP BH127 also belongs to this category.

It has a wingspan of approximately 1,050 mm and uses a 3S electric configuration.

These models are much easier to integrate into normal flying activities than a large glow or gasoline warbird.

Which Black Horse jets are available?

The Black Horse jet range includes electric EDF models and aircraft designed for turbine power.

You will find models such as:

• P-80 Shooting Star;
• L-39 Albatros;
• Viper Jet;
• Viper Jet MKII;
• MIG-29;
• SU-30.

This selection shows how far Black Horse has developed its range.

The MIG-29 has a wingspan of approximately 1,420 mm and uses two 90 mm EDF units in its electric configuration.

The P-80 Shooting Star has a wingspan of approximately 1,980 mm.

The L-39 Albatros BH190 has a wingspan of approximately 1,890 mm and a length of 2,410 mm. Depending on the configuration, the stated weight is around 13.8 to 14.9 kg.

This is already a completely different category of model aircraft.

Which power system should I choose for a Black Horse aircraft?

The best power system is the one that follows the manufacturer's recommendations while maintaining sensible weight and a correct centre of gravity.

I would not recommend choosing an engine simply because it provides more power.

A more powerful motor can also be heavier.

A larger battery can change the centre of gravity.

A larger ESC also adds weight.

As a result, the complete configuration may become significantly heavier than originally intended.

Can a Black Horse glow aircraft be converted to electric power?

Yes, some models are specifically designed to accept an electric alternative to glow or gasoline power.

The P-47 BH36 is one example.

The instructions specify a brushless electric system of approximately 1,200 to 2,200 W, alongside the proposed glow and gasoline options.

When carrying out such a conversion, several parameters must be considered:

• power;
• motor weight;
• battery capacity;
• battery position;
• cooling;
• centre of gravity;
• motor mounting;
• ESC current rating.

I therefore recommend following the manufacturer's suggested configuration whenever one is provided.

When should I choose a gasoline engine?

For large Black Horse aircraft, I would favour a gasoline engine when the size of the airframe and the desired flight duration justify this solution.

The range includes aerobatic aircraft and large scale models designed for engines with several tens of cubic centimetres of displacement.

The Edge 540 V3 85-inch, for example, is offered with a power system around 60 cc, while the 104-inch version can use an engine of approximately 120 cc.

For these large aircraft, gasoline is a particularly coherent choice.

When should I choose a turbine?

A Black Horse turbine model is aimed at experienced pilots who are already comfortable flying fast and heavy aircraft.

The L-39 Albatros BH190 is designed for a turbine in the 100 to 140 N range.

The Viper Jet, meanwhile, has a wingspan of approximately 2.23 m and a weight of around 14 kg. Depending on the configuration, a 140 to 160 N turbine is specified.

I would definitely not recommend such a model as a first RC aircraft.

You need to be fully comfortable with take-offs, landings, energy management and safety procedures for large models.

What level of flying experience is required for a Black Horse aircraft?

The required flying skill depends much more on the specific model than on the brand itself.

I consider this distinction important.

Black Horse offers relatively accessible small electric aircraft.

At the same time, the brand sells aircraft weighing 10, 15 kg and more.

It would therefore be wrong to say:

“Black Horse is only for experts.”

That is not true.

It would be equally wrong to say:

“Black Horse aircraft are suitable for beginners.”

That is not true either.

Can you start with a Black Horse aircraft?

I would not recommend starting RC flying with a large Black Horse aircraft.

For learning, I prefer an aircraft that is:

• stable;
• lightweight;
• simple;
• relatively affordable;
• easy to repair.

Once you have mastered the basics, Black Horse becomes much more interesting.

You can then choose a scale aircraft that genuinely matches your experience.

Which Black Horse should I choose after a trainer aircraft?

After a trainer, I would initially choose an electric model or a medium-sized scale aircraft.

A sensible progression could look like this:

Trainer aircraft → sport aircraft → first scale model → medium-sized warbird → large scale model → jet.

This is, of course, not a strict rule.

Your actual experience matters more than the number of aircraft you have flown.

However, this progression helps avoid taking overly large steps.

What size Black Horse aircraft should I choose?

The size should depend on your experience, flying field, vehicle and available storage space.

This is often the last thing people think about.

Yet a 1.05 m aircraft creates completely different practical issues from a model with a 2.85 m wingspan.

Before buying, check:

• wingspan;
• fuselage length;
• weight;
• dimensions of the disassembled wings;
• box dimensions;
• available vehicle space;
• storage space.

A large aircraft can look spectacular in the air.

It quickly becomes less attractive, however, if you discover that it does not fit in your car.

Are large Black Horse aircraft difficult to transport?

Yes, with large models, transportation becomes an important selection criterion.

The Fieseler Storch, with its approximately 2.85 m wingspan, requires appropriate planning.

The L-39 Albatros, with its 1.89 m wingspan and 2.41 m length, also requires a suitable vehicle.

For large models, I recommend using a transport system that protects the wings and fuselage.

A large aircraft should be treated like delicate equipment during transport.

What should I buy with a Black Horse ARF?

The ARF kit is only part of your total budget.

This is particularly true for large aircraft.

Here are the main components you should plan for.

How many servos are required?

The number of servos varies considerably depending on the model.

A small aircraft may require four servos.

A large warbird can require considerably more.

A complex jet may also include flaps, landing gear, gear doors, nose-wheel steering and additional functions.

The MIG-29, for example, requires a relatively extensive RC installation with several servos for its different functions.

The L-39 also requires an appropriately comprehensive installation.

As a general principle, I prefer servos with sufficient torque reserve rather than operating exactly at their limit.

How many channels do I need for a Black Horse?

The required number of channels must be determined by considering all the functions of the aircraft.

You need to consider:

• ailerons;
• elevator;
• rudder;
• throttle;
• flaps;
• landing gear;
• gear doors;
• brakes;
• nose wheel;
• additional functions.

A simple aircraft may be perfectly happy with six channels.

A large scale model, however, can quickly require more than ten channels.

I also recommend leaving some channels available.

This means you will not have to replace your transmitter if you later decide to add another function.

Black Horse or foam aircraft: which should I choose?

I would choose Black Horse if you want a wooden scale model and a more traditional model-building experience. Foam aircraft remain very attractive because of their ease of use.

Both solutions are good.

They simply meet different needs.

Choose foam if you are looking for:

• quick assembly;
• low weight;
• easy transport;
• simple repairs;
• generally manageable costs;
• an aircraft for spontaneous flying sessions.

Choose Black Horse if you are looking for:

• a balsa/plywood construction;
• a realistic scale model;
• large-scale aircraft;
• detailed finishing;
• a warbird;
• a wooden aerobatic aircraft;
• a large glow or gasoline-powered aircraft;
• an EDF jet or turbine jet.

For me, the enjoyment factor also matters.

A Black Horse aircraft is not simply an object designed to fly.

It is also a model that you build, set up, maintain and enjoy seeing on the flight line.

Which are the best Black Horse aircraft?

There is no single best Black Horse aircraft: the best model is the one that matches your experience and preferred type of flying.

I would look at the choice this way.

Why buy a Black Horse aircraft from Scientific MHD?

Scientific MHD has been the official and exclusive Black Horse Model distributor for France and Belgium since 2012.

We have therefore been supporting the brand for many years.

Our aim is to offer as complete a range as possible. On our website, you will find 99% of the Black Horse aircraft range, from small electric models to large scale aircraft and jets.

We also price our products so that we remain among the most competitive suppliers on the European market.

For me, however, a good RC aircraft dealer should offer more than simply an aircraft at the best price.

They should also be able to help you choose the right equipment, for example:

• the correct power system;
• suitable servos;
• the right battery;
• the appropriate ESC;
• the radio system;
• accessories;
• the parts required for assembly.

This becomes particularly important with a large Black Horse model.

How should I prepare for buying a Black Horse aircraft?

I recommend answering eight questions before placing your order.

1. How good are your flying skills?

A beginner has different requirements from a pilot already experienced with warbirds.

2. What size can you transport?

Measure your vehicle before ordering a model with a wingspan of more than 2 metres.

3. What flying field do you use?

A large aircraft requires a suitable take-off and landing area.

4. Which power system do you want?

Electric, glow, gasoline, EDF or turbine systems significantly change the budget and operating requirements.

5. How many servos are required?

Check the instructions before buying your equipment.

6. How many channels does your radio system need?

Count all the functions, not just the main control surfaces.

7. What will the final weight be?

The total weight directly affects the flight characteristics.

8. What is your total budget?

Do not consider only the price of the kit.

Add the airframe, power system, servos, transmitter, battery, ESC, landing gear and accessories.

What budget should I allow for a Black Horse aircraft?

The total budget varies considerably depending on the size and power system of the model.

A small electric Black Horse aircraft may require relatively little additional equipment.

A large gasoline aircraft already requires a much more extensive installation.

A turbine jet belongs to another cost category altogether.

I therefore recommend calculating the cost of a ready-to-fly aircraft, rather than looking only at the kit price.

For a large model, you should particularly budget for:

• engine;
• exhaust;
• servos;
• receiver;
• receiver batteries;
• power supply;
• landing gear;
• wheels;
• propeller;
• fuel tank;
• fuel lines;
• accessories;
• programming and setup tools.

Only by looking at the complete package can you properly compare two aircraft.

Do you need wooden model-building experience?

A Black Horse ARF does not require the experience of a modeller building a complete wooden kit from scratch. However, careful and methodical assembly is required.

You do not have to build the wing from scratch.

You should, however, understand how the following components work:

• control linkages;
• servos;
• hinges;
• centre of gravity;
• control throws;
• power system;
• landing gear;
• radio system.

If you already know how to assemble and set up an RC aircraft, many of the procedures will be familiar.

The main difference is the size and complexity of the model.

How do you prepare the first flight of a Black Horse aircraft?

Before the first flight, the airframe, control functions, centre of gravity and power system must all be checked thoroughly.

I recommend following this sequence.

Before going to the flying field

Check:

• centre of gravity;
• control throws;
• correct direction of all control functions;
• operation of all servos;
• motor mounting;
• wing attachment;
• landing gear;
• battery;
• receiver;
• power system safety functions.

At the flying field

Before taking off, check again:

• transmitter range;
• control functions;
• wing locking system;
• canopy attachment;
• battery;
• landing gear;
• wheels;
• condition of the runway.

For a first flight, I prefer to have a second experienced pilot next to me.

With a large model, four eyes are better than two.

Are Black Horse aircraft suitable for model flying clubs?

Yes, Black Horse models are particularly well suited to model flying clubs with a suitable runway and experienced pilots who can help with setup and first flights.

In my opinion, a club is actually the ideal environment for large models.

You can benefit from the experience of other pilots to:

• check the centre of gravity;
• verify control throws;
• test the radio system;
• safely start the engine;
• perform a taxi test;
• carry out the first take-off;
• assess the flight characteristics.

For a jet or a large gasoline-powered aircraft, I strongly recommend this approach.

My opinion of Black Horse Model

Black Horse Model is a particularly interesting brand if you want a wooden RC aircraft, a genuine scale model and a broad range that allows you to progress according to your experience.

I would not start with a large Black Horse model.

Once you are comfortable with your trainer aircraft, however, and want to move towards a more realistic machine, I believe the brand clearly deserves your attention.

What I particularly appreciate is the diversity of the range.

You can start with a small P-47 EP, move on to a larger warbird, then choose an Edge 540 or Extra NG, and eventually become interested in large jets such as the L-39 Albatros or Viper Jet.

Each stage offers a different experience.

Black Horse also has a strong identity in a market where foam aircraft play a major role.

The balsa and plywood construction, large scale models, detailed finishes and choice between electric, glow, gasoline and turbine power systems make a real difference.

If you enjoy building, setting up and flying an aircraft that genuinely looks like a full-size machine, I would take a serious look at Black Horse.

Frequently asked questions about Black Horse aircraft

Who makes Black Horse aircraft?

Black Horse Model is a Vietnamese manufacturer founded in 1999, specializing in RC aircraft and wooden scale models.

Where are Black Horse aircraft made?

Black Horse aircraft are manufactured in Vietnam, in Ho Chi Minh City.

Is Black Horse Model a good brand?

Yes, Black Horse is a brand known for balsa and plywood construction, detailed scale models and large aircraft.

However, I still recommend checking the technical specifications of the specific model before buying.

Are Black Horse aircraft made from balsa?

Most traditional models use balsa and plywood construction.

The materials and construction can vary depending on the model.

What does ARF mean on a Black Horse model?

ARF means Almost Ready to Fly.

The airframe is largely pre-built, while the radio system, servos and power system generally still need to be installed.

Are Black Horse aircraft ready to fly?

No, an ARF model is not automatically ready to fly.

Final assembly, installation of the equipment and all setup procedures still need to be completed.

Can you start with a Black Horse aircraft?

Some smaller models may suit an advanced beginner, but I would not recommend large warbirds or jets for beginners.

Which Black Horse should I choose after a trainer aircraft?

I would choose an electric model or a medium-sized scale aircraft.

A small warbird is generally a more sensible step than a large jet.

What is the best Black Horse warbird?

There is no single best warbird for every pilot.

The P-47 Thunderbolt, Spitfire, P-40 Warhawk, Corsair and Zero are all interesting options, depending on your experience and the size you want.

Can a Black Horse model designed for a glow engine be converted to electric power?

Yes, some models are specifically designed to accept an alternative electric power system.

You should always follow the recommendations in the instructions for the specific model.

Which power system should I choose for a Black Horse aircraft?

Start by following the power system recommended by Black Horse for the exact model reference.

Then check the final weight and centre of gravity.

Which Black Horse aircraft use gasoline engines?

Large aerobatic aircraft and certain large scale models are designed for gasoline engines with several tens of cubic centimetres of displacement.

Does Black Horse offer EDF jets?

Yes, the range includes several EDF jets, including models such as the MIG-29 and certain versions of the Viper Jet and P-80 Shooting Star.

Does Black Horse offer turbine jets?

Yes. Depending on the version, the range includes aircraft such as the P-80 Shooting Star, L-39 Albatros and Viper Jet.

What is the largest Black Horse aircraft?

The range includes several very large models, including aerobatic aircraft and scale models with wingspans exceeding 2 metres.

Dimensions vary depending on the model reference and generation.

How many servos does a Black Horse aircraft need?

The number depends entirely on the specific model.

A small aircraft may require four servos, while a large jet or scale aircraft can require a much more extensive installation.

How many channels do you need to fly a Black Horse?

The required number of channels depends on the functions of the aircraft.

Flaps, retractable landing gear, gear doors, nose-wheel steering and additional functions can quickly increase the number of channels required.

Do you need a lot of experience to assemble a Black Horse aircraft?

A Black Horse ARF is considerably easier to assemble than a traditional wooden kit, but precise assembly is still required.

The experience needed depends mainly on the size and complexity of the model.

Where can you buy a Black Horse aircraft in France?

Scientific MHD has been the official and exclusive Black Horse Model distributor for France and Belgium since 2012.

On our website, you will find around 99% of the range, with prices that are among the most competitive on the European market.