The technology will most likely be used as a range extender device

Throughout the years of speculation over whether Mazda would reignite its passion for rotary-engined sportscars, there have been peaks and troughs of hype over the rebirth of the technology. Finally, some clarification has come from Mazda itself, with technical executives cautiously answering questions on rotary inclusion within the company's plans.

Speaking at a pre-Frankfurt Motor Show tech talk to Wheels Magazine, Mitsuo Hitomi (Managing Executive Officer in charge of Technical Research Center and Integrated Control System Development at Mazda) said: "We’re still continuing development of the next generation rotary engine”. Saying that, it probably won't be used in the same way that has made Mazda famous for the technology.

Despite its lack of vibration and wonderfully smooth power production, rotary engines really struggle when it comes to adhering to modern emissions laws. This has meant that a rotary engine is more likely to be used as a power unit for a range-extending hybrid system, rather than taking pride of place as the main powerplant of the vehicle.

“We cannot improve the rotary engine to the current conventional engine emissions. We are investigating various kinds of emission systems to ensure ideal conditions,” - Hitomi

On the other hand, Hitomi's colleagues at Mazda's Tech Forum refused to discuss the furthering of rotary development, with one executive starting off an interview by saying "no questions on rotary".

The RX Vision concept was the last true morsel from Mazda in reference to a rotary comeback The RX Vision concept was the last true morsel from Mazda in reference to a rotary comeback

This is maybe because the justification of reintroducing the rotary engine depends on rather large changes being successfully integrated within the tech. The flame propagation within a rotary's combustion chambers is one hurdle that needs vaulted, with Hidetoshi Kudo (Executive Officer in charge of R&D Administration and Product Strategy) previously stating: "As you know, flame propagation is an issue in rotary engines. We are looking at laser ignition and plasma ignition, but laser is very expensive”.

It seems plenty of work is yet to be done then, before we see the next 'RX' sportscar featuring a piece of rotary brilliance. In the meantime, please leave a space in your prayers for the apex seals of this world - they need all the help they can get.