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Mazda MX-30 electric SUV to introduce rotary-powered range extender

In the form of a range extender for the future electric model


Reports out of Mazda near-on confirm that the new, all-electric MX-30 will debut in 2020 with a range extender in the form of a Rotary engine. Its timing is on track with a previous statement that Mazda made in 2018, which touted that this technology would launch in 2020.

New information comes to light as the brand recaps on its rich, 100-year history. In the celebratory announcement, Mazda spoke fondly of the Rotary engine, recognising it as an important part of their history.

In the same release, the company made mention of a previous prototype vehicle, the Mazda 2 EV, which was the first of its kind to debut this technology to the world. (See our review here.)

“The company developed a prototype Mazda 2 EV with a small, single-rotor engine used as a range extender. A similar system could find its way onto the Mazda MX-30, a brand-new battery electric crossover SUV arriving at dealerships this year,” mentioned Mazda.

The test vehicle was equipped with the Rotary extender that boosted its total range by 180km. Specifically, it lifted it from 200km as an electric-only proposition, up to 380km with dual motors.

If that statement isn't concrete enough, Mazda UK has also posted a video which practically confirms it.

Toward the end of the video, created to celebrate the Rotary power plant, it alludes to the “2020 Mazda MX-30 with Rotary range extender” continuing the legacy.

Despite a cult following, the rotary engine was last seen deployed in the Mazda RX-8, which ended production in 2012.

Before that, previous iterations of the rotary engine were also available in our market.

Locally delivered RX-7 models, which included the series 1, 2 and 3 “SA22C” models, series 5 “FC” model and series 6 “FD” model all featured Rotary power.


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Justin Narayan

After more than a decade working in the product planning and marketing departments of brands like Kia, Subaru and Peugeot, Justin Narayan returned to being a motoring writer – the very first job he held in the industry.

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