Despite the lofty challenges associated with using rotary engines, Mazda is expected to continue to use the rotary engine following the demise of the RX-8, according to the TheDetroitBureau.com.
Formally known as the Wankel, the rotary has long been a fixture of Mazda’s performance cars, and has even helped the automaker win Le Mans back in 1991 — the only Japanese automaker ever to take the title.
While a rotary can be helpful in maintaining Mazda’s “zoom-zoom” image, the engines are not exactly fuel efficient and they’re costly to develop. Nevertheless, a new rotary powertrain currently under development is said to deliver mileage that is at least comparable to Mazda’s current gasoline engines — a significant improvement from what the current Wankel can achieve.
Kiyoshi Fujiwara, the Japanese maker’s global product design chief, cautiously admits to wanting to bring the next-gen rotary into production in 2017. However, according to Mazda Miami, an infusion of cash would be necessary to complete the redevelopment of the unusual engine. Perhaps in low-volume, Mazda can still make the dream of a new, powerful rotary engine a reality.
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