The rotary will not directly drive the wheels.
After several false starts, Mazda’s range-extending rotary engine is now in production. Mazda confirmed that the engine will be used in the MX-30 plugin hybrid crossover, which will debut in the second half Mazda’s current fiscal year. The current fiscal year ends March 31, 2023. We might have to wait a while until the rotary-assisted crossover is available in American showrooms.
We can confirm that the MX-30PHEV will be coming to the US, although we are unable to comment on the future products or products in other countries. Motor1.com shared a statement by Mazda. More information and details will be made available on this later.”
In July 2021, Mazda announced that the rotary range extender would be used to power a hybrid version MX-30. A Mazda spokesperson stated that they were still looking at using the rotary engine as a range extender six months after the announcement was made in July 2021. This revelation shattered all hopes of the model’s debut in 2022’s first half.
Automotive News states that the rotary range extender will not drive the wheels directly. It will instead charge the crossover’s battery which will then power the electric motor. The MX-30 is the only all-electric Mazda in the US. However, the platform can be adapted to a variety of powertrains. The US EPA says one of the drawbacks is its very limited range. It can only travel 100 miles (161 km) Despite being sold in California, sales for the new EV are pathetic compared to other electric crossovers.
Mazda was the first to make a rotary engine for production cars. However, the Japanese automaker ended its use of it after it lost sales of the RX-8. Although we are happy for the rotary’s return, it is disappointing that it will now power an electric car instead of a sports vehicle.
We will keep an eye on the model for further information. Mazda did not specify when they would release more information. However, we do know the company’s timeline and that it is getting shorter every year.