The Return of the Rotary: Mazda's Skyactiv-R Engine

By Syed Ahmer Imam

The rotary engine is a unique design that has been synonymous with Mazda for over 50 years. However, after the RX-8 was discontinued in 2012, many thought that the rotary engine would be gone forever. But Mazda has surprised everyone by announcing that they are bringing back the rotary engine. In this blog post, we'll take a look at what the rotary engine is, why it's so unique, and what Mazda has in store for us.

What is the Rotary Engine?

The rotary engine, also known as a Wankel engine, is a type of internal combustion engine. Unlike traditional piston engines, which use reciprocating pistons to convert pressure into rotational motion, the rotary engine uses a rotor to do the same. The rotor is a triangular-shaped piece that rotates around a central shaft. As the rotor spins, it creates different volumes of space, which draw in and expel air and fuel to power the engine.

The rotary engine was invented by German engineer Felix Wankel in the 1950s. However, it was Mazda who took the design and turned it into a successful production engine. Mazda began producing rotary engines in the 1960s and continued to use them in various models, such as the RX-7 and RX-8, until 2012.

What Makes the Rotary Engine Unique?

The rotary engine is unique in several ways. First, it is much smaller and lighter than a traditional piston engine with the same power output. This makes it ideal for use in sports cars, where weight and size are critical factors.

Second, the rotary engine is much smoother than a piston engine. This is because the rotor rotates continuously, rather than stopping and starting like a piston. This results in less vibration and a smoother ride.

Finally, the rotary engine produces a unique exhaust note. Its distinctive sound has made it popular with enthusiasts and has been featured in numerous movies and video games.

Why Did Mazda Discontinue the Rotary Engine?

Despite its many advantages, the rotary engine has some drawbacks. One of the main issues is fuel economy. The rotary engine is less efficient than a traditional piston engine, which means it consumes more fuel for the same power output. This was a significant concern for Mazda, especially as fuel economy regulations became more stringent.

Another issue with the rotary engine is emissions. The rotary engine has a higher level of emissions than a piston engine, particularly in terms of nitrogen oxides (NOx). This was also a concern for Mazda, as emissions regulations became stricter.

What Is Mazda Doing with the Rotary Engine Now?

After the RX-8 was discontinued in 2012, many thought that the rotary engine was gone for good. However, Mazda has been working on a new version of the rotary engine, which they call the Skyactiv-R. The Skyactiv-R is an evolution of the previous rotary engine design, with several improvements to address the fuel economy and emissions issues.

Mazda has not yet released many details about the Skyactiv-R engine, but they have confirmed that it will be used as a range extender in an upcoming electric vehicle. A range extender is a small engine that is used to charge the battery of an electric vehicle, extending its range.

Mazda has also hinted that the rotary engine could make a comeback in a new sports car. While there are no official plans yet, Mazda has stated that they are considering using the rotary engine in a new model, possibly in combination with electric motors to boost performance.

Conclusion

The rotary engine is a unique design that has been synonymous with Mazda for over 50 years. While it has some drawbacks, its many advantages, such as its small size, smoothness, and distinctive sound, make it a popular choice for sports cars. After the discontinuation of the RX-8, many enthusiasts thought that the rotary engine was gone for good. However, Mazda's announcement that they are bringing back the rotary engine with the Skyactiv-R is great news for rotary engine fans. The Skyactiv-R's improvements address the fuel economy and emissions issues, making it a promising option for the future. And with the possibility of a new sports car using the rotary engine in combination with electric motors, Mazda's commitment to innovation and pushing boundaries is clear. It's an exciting time for Mazda and rotary engine enthusiasts alike.