Mazda Revives the Rotary for Mazda2 Range Extender
Despite reports that Mazda has shelved plans for a next-generation rotary engine, the Japanese automaker unveiled a Mazda2 hybrid that utilizes a rotary engine that recharges the vehicle’s battery.
Though Mazda’s CEO Masamachi Kogai did state that a rotary engine wasn’t in the automaker’s immediate plans, he also made the claim vague by stating that the automaker was researching the technology to see where it’d fit in its portfolio. The prototype Mazda2 started its life as an electric vehicle but now features a 0.33-liter rotary engine in the rear of the car that generates power, charging the lithium-ion battery when it’s running low. Essentially, the Mazda2 is an extended-range hybrid but instead of a standard gasoline engine, it employs rotary technology.
SEE ALSO: Mazda Rotary Revival Shelved: CEO
The Japanese automaker is calling it the RE Range Extender, short for Rotary Engine Range Extender. It appears that Mazda is seriously considering it as a viable application, especially if it helps the brand meet strict emissions requirements.
[Source: Automotive News]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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