Mazda works on twin-rotor engine technology to meet U.S. needs

Mazda’s rotary engine is back in the spotlight, but this time it’s more than just a nostalgic look back at the RX-7’s glory days. Instead, it’s quietly shaping the brand’s electrified future. Rather than following the well-known EV playbook, Mazda has taken an unconventional route, designing a two-rotor hybrid system to balance power, efficiency and tightening emissions regulations.

Mazda CEO Masahiro Moro recently revealed that the brand’s rotary engines are accelerating toward a dual-rotor configuration, addressing what he described as a key flaw with the single-rotor setup: It simply can’t produce enough power to satisfy the demanding U.S. market.

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The news comes after the brand’s chief designer Masashi Nakayama confirmed that the Iconic SP’s design “is really intended to be turned into a production model in the near future.” The Iconic SP’s hybrid unit also features a compact twin-rotor rotary engine that acts as a range extender in conjunction with the electric vehicle drivetrain. When launched in October 2023, Mazda claims the system will reduce emissions by up to 90% when using carbon-neutral fuel.

Two rotors, one goal: power and relevance

during an interview automotive newsAt the meeting, Masahiro Moro spoke about their rotary engine goals and the challenges facing the project: “I want a rotary engine that meets very strict emissions regulations. That will be a major challenge. We are very close.”

The CEO added: “If we consider the US market, one rotor is not enough. Two rotors are needed to generate more power. We have already tested with a single rotor. The next phase will be to move to two rotors. By rotating separately in separate chambers, we need to generate more power with two rotors, which is more suitable for the American market.”

What’s less clear is which vehicles will feature this new powertrain. While the description vaguely reflects the Mazda MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV’s single-rotor setup, a more likely candidate is the Iconic SP’s twin-rotor hybrid drivetrain. With 365 hp (272 kW / 370 PS) and a focus on efficiency, it seems more in line with Moro’s aspirations for a vehicle that combines performance with sustainability.

Can a rotary engine do more than charge?

While the CEO explicitly refers to the twin-rotor rotary engine as a generator, patent drawings filed in June 2024 hint that Mazda may be exploring alternative applications for the technology.

Japanese media reported on the patent best caroutlined a two-seat sports coupe that featured a rotary engine mounted behind the front axle, powering the rear wheels via a rear-mounted transaxle gearbox. The system also includes hub motors in the front wheels, drawing power from a battery pack behind the seats. Unlike range extender configurations, the electric motor can be shut down, leaving the rotary engine as the sole source of power.

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This setup would mark a significant departure from the range-extender approach, offering a more traditional sports car feel, something that spin purists will no doubt celebrate. However, such a design would face the same emissions hurdles Moreau mentioned unless Mazda doubles down on carbon-neutral fuel to make it viable for production.

Mazda’s multipath approach: Rotary, ICE and more

Mazda’s rotary development didn’t happen in isolation. In May 2024, the automaker reiterated its focus on internal combustion engines (ICE) at a multi-pathway seminar, working with Toyota and Subaru to develop next-generation powertrains. Prototypes on display include a twin-rotor range extender system and a compact single-rotor engine, underscoring the brand’s determination to remain relevant in internal combustion engine technology in an increasingly electrified world.