Once again, Mazda looks to the rotary engine (RE) as a way to stand out.
Mazda started February 2024 off by reinstating the RE Development Group in its Powertrain Technology Development Department. The new RE Development Group will be tasked with evolving the engine further, but don’t expect a screaming RX-9 just yet – as development of the RE is aimed squarely at generator use.
The RE Development Group will also be handling the more boring legal aspects of engine development, such as the regulatory compliance in various markets worldwide. This makes sense as it would be pointless to invest further in fuel-burning engines if Mazda’s major markets are truly leaning towards 100% electrification. They’ll also look into the application of carbon-neutral fuels.
Reflecting on this decision, Ichiro Hirose, Mazda’s Director, Senior Managing Executive Officer, and Chief Technology Officer (CTO), expressed, “The rotary engine holds a special place in Mazda’s history, symbolizing our ‘challenger spirit.’ We extend heartfelt gratitude to those who have supported the Rotary Engine (RE) thus far. It brings us joy to announce the revival of the organization dedicated to developing the RE – an engine cherished by customers worldwide. Over the past six years, RE engineers have been integral to our engine development efforts, focusing on cutting-edge internal combustion engine functions and efficiency enhancements. They’ve broadened their expertise beyond traditional engine systems, mastering Mazda’s engineering strength in ‘Model-Based Development.’ Now, 36 engineers will unite to drive innovation in RE research and development. In the era of electrification and a carbon-neutral society, we commit to delivering captivating cars that ignite customer excitement, fueled by our enduring ‘challenger spirit.'”
The rotary engine, known for its distinctive triangular rotor structure, made its debut in the Cosmo Sport by Mazda in 1967. Mazda, as the sole automaker mass-producing rotary engines, has continuously worked on enhancing performance in output, exhaust-gas purification, fuel economy, and durability. After an approximately 11-year hiatus since the production end of the Mazda RX-8 in 2012, the company resumed mass production of rotary engine-equipped vehicles in June 2023. The Mazda MX-30 e-SKYACTIV R-EV, the 12th model featuring a rotary engine, is currently available in Japan and Europe.
