The Mazda RX Vision concept which world premiered at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show represents the Japanese company’s relentless pursuit of a challenging technology which other automakers gave up on – rotary IC engines. Mazda was the first automaker to overcome the technical difficulties in making rotary engines suitable for automotive applications back in 1967.
Mazda was also the first automaker to mass produce rotary engined cars and it took overall victory at the 1991 24 Hours of LeMans. This engine produces power by means of a rotational motion of a triangular rotor within a chamber (based on Wankel thermodynamic cycle) as against the reciprocating action of the pistons within cylinders in a regular IC engine.
The concept could eventually spawn a production version with next gen SKYACTIV-R rotary engine.Though the mass production of rotary powered sportscars is currently put on hold, Mazda has never stopped its research and development of the technology and is hoping to bring it to reality once again, in an improved avatar. The stylish RX Vision concept is powered by the next gen rotary engine called the SKYACTIV-R which is claimed to have better power output, fuel efficiency and lower emissions than the existing engines of its kind. Further details are under wraps as of now.
The aerodynamic front-engined rear-wheel drive sportscar adopts Mazda’s Kodo design philosophy and is easily the best looking automobile on display at the Tokyo Motor Show. An extremely long bonnet, tightly fitting room, massive and a non-existent rear overhang makes for a purposeful presence.
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We do hope that the Mazda RX Vision eventually spawns a next gen RX sportscar with a rotary engine.
