Mazda reintroduces rotary engine … for MX-30 plug-in hybrid

The Mazda MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV plug-in hybrid uses a rotary engine. Photo: Mazda

Mazda Motor Corporation has just unveiled the Mazda MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV, a plug-in hybrid model that uses a rotary engine as a generator.

Revealed at the Brussels Motor Show, the MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV has an 85 km battery electric driving range.

Levering the unique way in which rotary engines can produce the required output with a small power unit, Mazda developed the new rotary engine to work as a generator and positioned it on the same axle as a high-output motor and a generator in the engine bay. 

Mazda then paired this compact electric power unit with a 17.8 kWh lithium-ion battery and a 50 L fuel tank to achieve the unique series plug-in hybrid system.

The MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV includes compatibility with both normal and fast charging, 1,500 W power supply functionality, and three drive modes drivers can choose from to suit different driving situations: Normal, EV, and Charge modes.