Mazda Motorsports recently announced that it will supply racing versions of its new SKYACTIV-D clean diesel engines to customer teams competing in GRAND-AM’s new GX Class for advanced/clean technologies, beginning with the 2013 season. The engines will be stock-block Mazda SKYACTIV-D 2.2-litre diesel four-cylinder, dual-stage turbocharged powerplants that, according to John Doonan, MNAO’s Director of Mazda Motorsports, “will deliver outstanding performance and fuel economy coupled with the kind of quality, durability and reliability needed to produce great street cars and win endurance races.”
Mazda remains the only Asian auto maker committed to bringing modern clean-diesel technology to the United States. The production Mazda SKYACTIV-D features include:
1.14:1 low compression ratio 2. New two-stage turbocharger 3. A 5,200 rpm redline 4. When compared to Mazda’s current-production 2.2L MZR-CD diesel engine: 5. Up to 20 percent reduction in fuel consumption 6. 20 percent reduction in internal engine friction 7. 10 percent reduction in weight
Mazda Motorsports is noted for many things, including grassroots dominance in road racing, and being the only Asian car company with an overall win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Its David and Goliath approach — supported by unique powertrains, devoted teams and drivers, and sales of parts to all who wish to compete — has made Mazda one of the most successful brands in motorsports.
Since 2007, Mazda has been competing with great success in the GRAND-AM GT class with the rotary-powered RX-8. Mazda racers have secured manufacturers, team and drivers championships, along with 2008 and 2010 GT-class wins by the SpeedSource RX-8 in the Rolex 24 at Daytona. With the RX-8 no longer in production for the U.S. market, Mazda needed a new challenge.
SKYACTIV technology will allow Mazda to chart its own path in racing, showcasing the latest in fuel-efficient, powerful and clean powertrains. The engines are being developed jointly by Mazda Motor Corporation, Mazda North American Operations and SpeedSource Engineering. Dyno testing has already begun and on-track testing begins in late 2012. Engine pricing and terms will be announced at a later date. The actual Mazda model in which the SKYACTIV-D racing engine will be installed will be announced after the conclusion of the 2012 GRAND-AM racing season.
