Mazda rotary engine technology development

Mazda is pursuing new patent filings to revitalize its Wankel rotary engine technology by addressing historical issues with emissions and oil consumption.

One primary focus is a new exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system. This technology utilizes a dual-port design to manage exhaust gases: hot gas from the side port is directed to a turbocharger to improve power, while cooler gas from the peripheral port is cooled by engine coolant before being recirculated. This approach allows for a more compact cooling system by only requiring the recirculation of cooler exhaust.

Recent patent filings with the United States Patent and Trademark Office detail how this EGR system aims to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, potentially allowing rotary engines to meet stricter global environmental standards. The inclusion of a turbocharger in these designs suggests the technology may be intended for performance-oriented vehicles.

Additionally, the company is working to mitigate oil consumption. While previous models required injecting oil into the combustion chamber to lubricate apex seals—thereby increasing emissions—new designs suggest using centrifugal force to recover lubricant. While Mazda has already utilized the rotary engine as a range extender in the MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV, these developments indicate potential for future high-performance configurations where the engine directly powers vehicles.