After years of swirling rumors, Mazda has officially confirmed the return of the rotary engine. The announcement came in January with the unveiling of the MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV, a plug-in hybrid small crossover. Now, on June 22, mass production of the unique gasoline engine has commenced at Mazda’s Ujina Plant No. 1 in Hiroshima, Japan.
The iconic RX-8, beloved by enthusiasts, went out of production 11 years ago, but Mazda has not given up on the idea of a new sports car with a rotary engine. While patents have hinted at the possibility, there’s still a long way to go from patenting to actual production. Nevertheless, Mazda’s assistant manager of powertrain development, Yoshiaki Noguchi, expressed that the rotary engine is a symbol for the company and a performance application remains a cherished dream for the future.
Mazda’s first rotary engine, the two-rotor Wankel, made its debut in the 1967 Cosmo Sport 110S. With an impressive 1.99 million vehicles equipped with rotary engines assembled to date, there’s anticipation about whether the modern-day equivalent will be incorporated into other models or remain exclusive to the MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV. In the crossover, the single-rotor engine acts as a generator, producing 74 horsepower but not mechanically connecting to the wheels.
The return of the rotary engine is an exciting prospect for enthusiasts worldwide. While there are still obstacles to overcome, the commencement of mass production signifies a significant step forward. Mazda’s unwavering commitment to the rotary engine continues to fuel anticipation for a potential future rotary-powered sports car.
#MazdaRotaryRevival
#MX30eSkyactivREngine
#RotaryEngineComeback
Get More Great Car Videos – Subscribe: https://goo.gl/BSIaFc
