Mazda’s Revolutionary Approach: Rotary Engine Development Takes Center Stage

Mazda’s Chief Executive, Masahiro Moro, unveiled groundbreaking plans at the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon, declaring the establishment of a dedicated rotary engine development department set to commence operations in February.

While the rotary engine has long been synonymous with high-performance cars, such as the iconic RX-7 and RX-8, Mazda is charting a new course, envisioning the rotary engine as a medium for carbon-neutral motoring. Moro expressed the department’s commitment to addressing the challenges of the carbon-neutral era, pushing the boundaries of engineering through a wide range of technical resources.

Much like Toyota’s significant investment in hydrogen-powered combustion engines, Mazda is exploring eco-friendly alternatives to traditional electric vehicles (EVs). In a bid to deepen its understanding of carbon-neutral motoring, Mazda has actively participated in the Super Taikyu motorsport series. Notably, Toyota has also entered the racing arena with a hydrogen-powered Corolla, while Mazda showcased its commitment with a biodiesel-powered Mazda 3 Gr.4, an experimental race car.

Acknowledging the complexity of overcoming technical challenges, Moro emphasized the historical difficulty of finding alternative solutions to the climate crisis. Mazda’s rotary engine re-entered production in June 2023 after an 11-year hiatus, initially featuring in the MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV, a departure from the traditional sports car or hot hatch application.

Anticipation is building for a potential resurgence of rotary-powered performance cars, as indicated by the captivating SP Concept unveiled in October. Since its initial production in 1967, Mazda has crafted a remarkable two million rotary engines. The timing of this new division launch is particularly significant, considering the prevailing trend among rival brands toward electric vehicles (EVs).

Mazda, however, adopts a deliberate approach in the EV race, with CEO Masahiro Moro characterizing the company as an “intentional follower” in the electric vehicle segment. Citing a perceived decline in interest in EVs, Mazda is actively exploring alternative solutions to the mobility crisis. The new rotary division holds the potential to pioneer hydrogen-powered engines or range-extender systems, as exemplified by the MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV.

In a strategic move that involves drawing from its storied past to address future challenges, Mazda’s electrified rotary-engined cars emerge as a compelling proposition. As the automotive industry navigates the transformative landscape of sustainable mobility, Mazda’s revolutionary approach signals a commitment to innovation, blending the best of tradition and modernity to meet the evolving needs of the world.

Photo Source: Mazda Newsroom