For years, we’ve been hearing rumors that Mazda will bring back the Wankel engine and introduce a new sports car as a successor to the RX-7 and RX-8. However, unfortunately, we have not seen such an initiative from the Japanese manufacturer until now. But things seem to change soon.
Wankel engine legend prepares to return
In fact, in the past years, Mazda has started to use the Wankel engine (Rotary engine) again. However, this engine, which only works as a range extender in the MX-30 model, was obviously not what we expected. The new patent obtained by the Japanese manufacturer will excite car lovers.
It turns out that Mazda has filed six patent applications with the Japanese Patent Office regarding an all-new twin-rotor Wankel engine. Unlike the single-rotor engine used in the MX-30, this two-rotor design appears to have been designed to power a car rather than serve as a range extender.
There is no information yet about the vehicle in which this new engine will be used. However, the RX-Vision concept previously introduced by the Japanese manufacturer may be a very suitable host for this engine. The impact a rotary-engined sports car can have on the market can be huge.
While this is just an expectation, we think there is no other reason for Mazda to file such a patent application. After all, a twin-rotor Wankel engine provides much more power than a range extender, and it seems much more likely to be used in a stand-alone vehicle.
In addition, an electric unit to be added to this vehicle and assisted while the vehicle is moving could significantly reduce fuel consumption in Mazda’s new sports car. The patents obtained by the Japanese manufacturer also aim to increase the efficiency of the Wankel engine. Mazda can thus make the Rotary engine, which can consume 20 liters per 100 kilometers, much more efficient.
With it becoming much more efficient, we may see the Rotary engine in some Mazda models in the coming period. So what do you think about the Wankel engine and a possible RX-9 model? You can share your views with us in the comments section.
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