Mazda Accelerates Rotary Resurgence By Investing In Wankel Engine Innovation
by AutoExpert | 3 February, 2024
Mazda is diving back into rotary engines with a dedicated team of 36 engineers, aiming to amp up Wankel engine technology. The carmaker is not just nostalgic about it. Instead, they're eyeing the rotary as a generator for electric vehicles, like they did with the MX-30 e-Skyactive R-EV.
The MX-30's 0.8-liter Wankel engine did wonders, extending its range from 53 to a whopping 373 miles. Impressed with the results, Mazda's doubling down on this technology.
Starting February 1, 2024, their team is on a mission for a rotary engine breakthrough. Ichiro Hirose, Mazda’s chief tech officer, promises tech that'll make cars "attractive and exciting" for customers. While they're a bit hush-hush about the details, Mazda sees the rotary engine as a generator, thanks to its compact size.
Mazda is not just stopping at hybrids, either; there's a hint of a sports car in the mix. The Iconic SP concept car, boasting a two-rotor rotary EV system, suggests a potential hydrogen or carbon-neutral fuel ride with around 365 hp and a perfect 50-50 weight distribution. That could be the showstopper for Mazda's tech showcase.
