Will Subaru finally walk away from the Boxer? Enquiring minds want to know.
Will Mazda finally walk away from the Rotary Engine?
Google AI:
Yes, Mazda is bringing back its rotary engine, but not in the way it has been used in the past. The rotary engine is now being used as a range extender for the Mazda MX-30 e-SKYACTIV R-EV. This means it’s part of a plug-in hybrid system, where the rotary engine acts as a generator to charge the battery rather than directly powering the wheels.
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
MX-30 e-SKYACTIV R-EV:
This is Mazda’s first plug-in hybrid model, and the rotary engine is a key component.
Range Extender:
The rotary engine doesn’t directly drive the wheels. Instead, it acts as a generator, charging the battery pack that powers the electric motor.
Not a Sports Car Engine:
Unlike past models like the RX-8, the rotary engine in the MX-30 R-EV is not designed for high-performance driving or as the primary source of power.
Carbon Neutral Fuels:
Mazda is also researching the use of carbon-neutral fuels with the rotary engine, potentially making it a more sustainable powertrain option according to Mazda.
Revival of Development:
Mazda has even re-established a dedicated “RE Development Group” to further research and development of the rotary engine.
Porsche is not doing so.
So far the new Subaru hybrids have boxer flat engines, but running the miller cycle as Toyota does.