Mazda is currently undergoing a full model change of the RX-8, and plans to release it as the new RX-9 in 2026. The rotary sports concept, the Mazda RX-VISION, was unveiled at the 44th Tokyo Motor Show in 2015, and the MAZDA ICONIC SP was then unveiled for the first time in the world at the JAPAN MOBILITY SHOW 2023 on October 25, 2023.
Mazda also began production of rotary engines, adding a new model to the MX -30 , the MX-30 R-EV, equipped with a new RE (rotary engine) range extender , which was released in Japan in April 2023. On May 28, 2024, at the event announcing new engine developments from Toyota, Subaru, and Mazda, the company unveiled the Rotary-EV System Concept (Two Rotors). This combines two longitudinally mounted rotors for power generation with a new electric drive unit, achieving proportions with a low center of gravity. Given this trend, it’s possible that the RX may be revived. We’ll explain in detail what kind of model it will be.
Is that the name of the Mazda RX-9?
There are rumors that the development of the RX-9 is underway, but it is also said that it may be the RX-7. Many domestic and international media outlets and car fan sites have reported on the revival of the RX-7. One reason is that the Mazda RX-VISION, a concept model for the RX-8, is not a four-seater, but like the RX-7, it is a two-seater. However, after the RX-7 and RX-8, it is unlikely that the RX-7 would be used as a model name again. Furthermore, given its position as a next-generation model, it is highly likely that the RX-9 will be released as the successor to the RX-8.
Mazda RX-9 spy shots
Overseas, test runs of the next-generation rotary engine SKYACTIV-R are being conducted using the RX-8, and spy shots are being taken.
About the RX-7/RX-8
Production of the RX-7 ended in 2002. The RX-8 was on sale from 2003 to 2012, but is no longer available. The Mazda RX-7 is a rotary engine sports car that is still popular with many fans today.
About the RX-9 concept model
Mazda RX-VISION
The rotary sports concept “Mazda RX-VISION” was unveiled at the 44th Tokyo Motor Show 2015 on October 28, 2015. It was then unveiled for the second time at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2016, held at Makuhari Messe from January 15 to 17, 2016.
On July 21st, 2016, we exhibited the Mazda RX-VISION at the heritage car event “Automobile Council 2016,” which was held at Makuhari Messe Halls 2 and 3 from August 5th to 7th.
2017 marks the 50th anniversary of Mazda’s rotary engine, and an important announcement was made: the unveiling of the next-generation RE rotary engine, “SKYACTIV-R.”
MAZDA ICONIC SP
On October 25, 2023, the compact sports car concept “MAZDA ICONIC SP” was unveiled for the first time in the world at the “JAPAN MOBILITY SHOW 2023.”
In creating the “framework” that forms the basis of the design, we aimed for proportions with a low center of gravity that would convey excellent driving performance. By placing the lightweight and compact rotary engine in the center of the vehicle, we were able to achieve a low hood. This rotary engine is highly scalable, being able to burn a variety of fuels, including hydrogen.
The two-rotor Rotary-EV system generates electricity using carbon-neutral fuel and charges the battery with electricity derived from renewable energy, enabling essentially carbon-neutral driving. This system generates high power, and its low center of gravity and 50:50 front-to-rear weight distribution give it excellent driving performance. Another feature is that, despite being a sports car, it can also be used for outdoor leisure activities and as a power source in the event of a disaster.
The body color “VIOLA RED” is a concept color created to reflect Mazda’s feelings about the color red, which it cherishes, and its corporate philosophy of “expanding the circle of people who live each day positively.”
New RX-9 predicted specs
| Specifications | Mazda RX-9 Predictions |
|---|---|
| full length | 4,389mm |
| Overall width | 1,925mm |
| Overall height | 1,160mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,700mm |
| engine | 800cc x 2 rotary engine SKYACTIV-R |
| Drive system | FR |
| Passenger capacity | 4 people |
New RX-9 e-SKYACTIV R-EV Range Extender
The engine installed in the new “RX-9” will be a rotary engine. It will adopt a model equipped with a “power generating rotary engine” that is a two-rotary engine generator installed in the “e-SKYACTIV”. Nissan calls the “series system (range extender)” also known as “e-POWER”, and it has become so popular that it is now a best-seller in terms of sales volume.
rotary engine
Hybrid system types
Parallel system (mild hybrid)
The engine is always running, and the motor is used to assist. Generally, the motor output is low and a small battery is used. The advantage is that the fuel efficiency is improved without increasing the unit price too much.
Split system/series-parallel system (strong hybrid, hybrid, PHEV)
The engine is used for both power generation and driving. Basically, the motor drives the vehicle when it starts moving, and the engine starts at a certain speed, reducing engine power and improving fuel efficiency. The base price is higher than that of gasoline models.
Series system (each company has its own name)
The engine is used exclusively for generating electricity and the car is driven solely by the motor. When electricity is insufficient, the engine generates electricity. In other words, it can be said to be an electric vehicle (BEV) that does not require charging. The driving sensation is just like an electric vehicle, with its distinctive driving style and the ability to accelerate and decelerate using only the accelerator pedal.
Mazda Series Rotary (RE) Range Extender
The name of the device is the Mazda RE Range Extender. A range extender is a device that extends the driving range of an electric vehicle (EV) by equipping it with an engine dedicated to generating electricity. While hybrid cars use both the engine and the motor to run, a range extender EV uses only the motor to propel the vehicle.
The engine is only used to charge the battery. Driving range is considered the biggest issue with EVs, but range extenders are attracting attention as a technology that can complement this. By keeping the battery capacity to a certain extent, there are benefits such as freeing up space inside the vehicle and reducing battery costs.
Specifically, the motor will be placed at the front for front-wheel drive, a lithium-ion battery will be placed in the center, and an 800cc twin rotary engine will be installed at the rear as a generator.
In the official announcement
- Electric vehicle technology development
- “Connected Car” – a service that connects cars to the internet
- Complementary products
- On November 2, 2016, at Mazda’s interim financial results announcement, Akira Marumoto, Mazda’s Representative Director and Executive Vice President, said, “We will continue to develop electric vehicle (EV) technology and products. Range extenders (which use the engine to extend the vehicle’s range) are also an advantage. We are considering developing and launching them on the market.” “We will announce when we will launch them at the appropriate time.” Mazda is not limiting the EVs it develops to the US market, but is considering launching them in global markets. In addition to EVs, the company is also developing and commercializing plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs).
- On October 2, 2018, Mazda announced its “Electrification and Connectivity Technology Strategy.” Based on this strategy, Mazda is developing models powered solely by batteries, as well as models equipped with a newly developed rotary engine range extender that generates electricity to extend driving range when the battery reaches a certain level. This rotary engine range extender employs Mazda’s unique rotary engine (RE), which is small, lightweight, and quiet. Taking advantage of the RE’s compact size and high output, the common packaging enables the creation of multi-solution electrification technologies. Furthermore, taking advantage of the RE’s compatibility with gaseous fuels, the rotary engine range extender is designed to be able to use LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) to provide emergency power in the event of a disaster.
- Mazda has announced that it will establish a new “Rotary Engine (RE) Development Group” on February 1, 2024, and begin full-scale development of the rotary engine. Mazda’s future moves are attracting attention.
- On May 28, 2024, Toyota, Subaru, and Mazda unveiled the “ROTARY-EV SYSTEM CONCEPT (TWO ROTOR)” at the event where they announced their new engine development. This unit combines two longitudinally mounted rotors for power generation with a new electric drive unit, achieving a low center of gravity.
A word from the editorial department
With the era of electrification upon us, what does the future hold for Mazda? The new Mazda Vision SP Concept offers a glimpse into the future of this series. At first glance, the Mazda Iconic SP may remind you of the legendary FD RX-7. It features a twin-rotor powertrain and distinctive headlights designed like retractable headlights. This could lead to a revival as the RX-9. Some speculate it could be an MX-5 (Roadster), but the lack of an open-top makes this unlikely. Furthermore, development of a rotary engine appears to be progressing, so keep an eye out for future developments!
We will let you know as soon as we have more information.
Mazda news release
https://www2.mazda.com/ja/publicity/release/2016/201607/160721a.html
