At the 2008 NAIAS press days, Mazda announced future generations of three engines.
Note that Mazda retains FMC corporate-wide responsibility for the MZR engine family; the innovations below are some of the elements of the upcoming turbocharged 4 cylinder engine that will also be used by Ford andlabelled "EcoBoost". Ford is putting Mazdas experience with the 2.3 liter direct-injected turbo MazdaSpeed engine to good use.
Mazda Press Release follows.
NEXT GENERATION I-4 DIRECT INJECTION GASOLINE ENGINE
Mazda’s DISI* engines balance sporty driving with outstanding environment performance. With the next generation engine in the series, we are aiming for a 15% ~ 20% improvement in dynamic performance and a 20% increase in fuel economy (compared with a Mazda 2.0L gasoline engine). Based on the direct injection system, we aim to reduce all energy losses (see figure on the right) and improve thermal efficiency through innovative engineering in a variety of technological areas. Among these technologies we are paying particular attention to direct injection, combustion control, variable valve system technology and catalyst technology. Also, among the various fuels on the market, we are studying the use of flex-fuel. *DISI:Direct Injection Spark Ignition
Direct injection technology Cooling the intake air temperature is an excellent method of suppressing abnormal combustion such as pre-ignition and knock that might be caused by a higher compression ratio. Cooling the intake air temperature also contributes to improved power output by increasing air density. Fuel atomization and in-cylinder flow are important factors in improving air cooling. For the next-generation of swirl injectors, as used in the current MZR2.3L DISI TURBO and MZR2.0L DISI engines, we are researching technology to improve atomization and promote mixing through enhanced in-cylinder gas flow in order to increase the cooling effect. We are also looking for ideal combustion in a variety of driving situations by controlling the number and timing of direct injections, and also turbulence.
Combustion control technology The combustion chamber shape is an essential factor in avoiding the unwanted influences of a high compression ratio. Mazda engineers employ advanced visualization and CAE technologies to study combustion chamber shapes capable of performing under higher compression ratios.
Variable valve timing technology The conventional gasoline engine suffers from considerable pumping loss when driving around town and in other low-speed situations. To reduce this loss Mazda is currently advancing S-VT (Sequential-Valve Timing). We are investigating dual S-VT with a phase-variable mechanism for both the intake and exhaust sides, as well as a continuously variable lift mechanism now in development. If we can adjust the intake volume solely with a variable valve mechanism, it will be possible to reduce pumping loss and improve fuel economy. At the same time, we can also achieve the brisker response that is essential for exciting driving.
Catalyst technology To meet the severe exhaust emissions regulations of the future, Mazda has developed a new catalyst employing single nano technology*. This includes a new and original catalyst structure, consisting of precious metal embedded in a catalyst support matrix. The new catalyst has the following key features: (1)Suppression of thermal degradation caused by precious metal aggregation, (2)Substantial improvement in the oxygen absorption and emission performance required for purification of the exhaust gases. As a result, this structure ensures that there is virtually no loss of purification efficiency, even under extreme conditions of use. We have also confirmed that the volume of precious metal required is reduced by 70% ~ 90% (Mazda’s in-company comparison) while maintaining existing purification efficiency. This is called single nano technology. Use of these technologies with a platinum or rhodium catalyst in a 3-way catalytic converter dramatically reduces the volume of precious metal required to purify emission gases. *Single nano technology: Technology to control material structures at sizes smaller than conventional nano technology.
Next Generation Clean Diesel Engine Excellent fuel-economy and substantial torque are characteristics that have made the diesel engine popular, particularly for long-distance travel in Europe. The diesel engine has also been the subject of clean technology development in response to strengthened European emission requirements, and has consequently become of interest because of its substantially low CO2 exhaust volume. We are pursuing the kind of fun-to-drive performance that conventional diesel engines cannot offer to allow stress-free driving up to high engine speeds. This is based on common-rail direct injection diesel turbo technologies which have been highly evaluated in Europe. To meet global requirements, we also aim to improve emissions and fuel economy by as much as ten percent. The following illustration shows the main technologies to fulfil our aims.
Direct Injection technology This newly-developed technology is comprised of a high fuel pressure common rail system that controls piezo injectors. The piezo element in an injector expands in nanoseconds (one billionth of a second) in response to a change in signal voltage, which results in far quicker response than the conventional solenoid injector using electromagnetic force for up/down movement. The piezo injector delivers a shorter injection time alongside dramatically improved fuel atomization and injection volume precision. Our aim is to realize homogeneous mixing for waste-free combustion, at the same time improving power, fuel economy and emissions control.
Lightweighting Compared with its gasoline counterpart, the diesel engine’s reciprocating and rotating components (pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, etc.) are heavier, which creates the problem of a low rpm limit. With Mazda’s next generation 2.0L diesel engine, in addition to using an aluminum block, we thoroughly reduced the size and weight of reciprocating and rotating parts with the aim of achieving a similar weight to the gasoline version. As a result, we have not only realized smooth, high-revving performance, but also simultaneously achieved better fuel economy and lower NVH by reducing mechanical resistance.
Turbo system A 2-stage turbocharger is used to yield optimally high turbo-pressure over a broader engine rev range than on the previous diesel engine, with the aim of obtaining a broad, flat torque curve. The turbocharger boosts torque at low rpm as well as acceleration response, delivering another advance in Mazda’s trademark driving pleasure. Further, by simultaneously increasing intake volume and EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) volume at all engine speeds, from urban driving to highway situations, the 2-stage turbo delivers emissions performance that meets global requirements, and improved fuel economy through lean combustion.
Catalyst technology ･ High-efficiency PM combustion catalyst The oxidation catalyst in a conventional catalyst-supported diesel particulate filter (DPF) promotes combustion with carbon (the main constituent of particulate matter) using only the oxygen atoms on the surface of the oxide layer. By contrast, with Mazda’s new PM combustion catalyst, the oxygen atoms within the entire oxide layer are effectively used, thereby substantially accelerating carbon burning. This also shortens the time needed for the DPF to regenerate, enabling lower emissions and better fuel economy. In addition, on account of the new material’s high durability and minimal drop-off in performance, it is possible to use smaller volumes of the expensive precious metal.
･ Catalyst system Since diesel engine exhaust gas contains a large volume of oxygen, it is a major challenge to reduce NOx (oxides of nitrogen that are a cause of acid rain) to N2 (nitrogen gas). In addition to an after-treatment system to purify the unburned exhaust gas components, Mazda is developing technology for its diesel engines that enables catalytic treatment of NOx in exhaust gases. We are developing a selective reduction system that adds aqueous urea to exhaust, and a NOx storage system for exhaust gas purification. These systems are being readied for future global deployment.
Next Generation RENESIS (Rotary Engine 16X) Mazda is celebrating 40 years of rotary engine development since the introduction of the rotary engine Cosmo Sport in 1967. To mark the occasion, we have begun development of the direct injection 16X, a 1600 cc (800 cc x 2) powerplant with a new trochoid chamber shape aimed at further improving thermal efficiency and boosting torque at all engine speeds. The 16X is made possible through the experience and technology gained with RENESIS, a unit featuring side exhaust ports and other features that greatly advanced the rotary engine.
All-round change of dimensions With the next-generation RENESIS, Mazda has changed the cocoon shape of the trochoid rotor housing. This marks a further evolution of the basic structure of the engine which began with an early period of over seven years spent researching the optimum trochoid shape, from the introduction of the first 10A (491cc x 2) in 1967, followed by the 13A (655cc x 2), 12A (573cc x 2) and the current 13B (654cc x 2). This shape change is brought about by reducing the rotor housing width and housing thickness while increasing the trochoid outline, resulting in a displacement increase to 800 cc x 2. But despite this dimensional increase, we were able to keep the engine itself essentially as compact and lightweight as the current RENESIS. As for its specific shape, increasing the trochoid radius and eccentricity and reducing rotor housing width achieved a longer stroke, thereby shrinking the combustion chamber aspect ratio. Due to this modification, the surface area-to-volume ratio of the combustion chamber decreases, enabling a reduction in cooling losses. Also, since the very tight space in the combustion chamber is reduced, flame growth is promoted and the engine exhibits faster combustion and better fuel economy. As well as improving fuel economy-an essential part of environmental performance-we are simultaneously pursuing higher torque at all engine speeds.
Direct injection technology The next-generation RENESIS is the first gasoline rotary engine developed to use direct fuel injection. The system inherits the basic design concept of the hydrogen rotary engine, injecting gasoline in a high-pressure spray during the intake cycle, promoting atomization and vaporization of fuel and the formation of a stable air-fuel mixture. The latent heat of fuel vaporization lowers the temperature of the air-fuel mixture, thus raising the engine’s charging efficiency. At the same time, it reduces fuel adhesion to the chamber wall, which has been a problem of the conventional port injection system, while promoting a more homogenous air-fuel mixture. This in turn leads to substantially improved thermal efficiency and increased torque, and Mazda is actively researching further improvements in efficiency.
Aluminum side housing In developing the new engine, Mazda engineers have dramatically improved both power output and environmental efficiency. They have also contributed to further increases in fuel-economy and driving performance by lightening the vehicle weight. By keeping the engine’s exterior dimensions about the same as the current RENESIS, which allows more of the vehicle’s volume to be devoted to passenger space, and by using an aluminum side housing aiming at lighter weight than the current RENESIS along with various other measures, Mazda continues to advance the merits of the compact and lightweight rotary engine.
Carscoop scored well yesterday with a W-12 powered VW GTI.. Cool, but not something any of us would be likely to build.
But today's post on a 3-rotor Wankel powered DeLorean hits home - this is something that we could do, and something that we would want to do. DeLorean prices aren't too bad... and as Carscoop says the 130-HP Renault motor is pointless. DeLoreans have long needed an alternative. This swap provides that, as well as the Porsche transaxle needed to make it work.
-The addition of the 6-speed Activematic automatic transmission model and Sand Beige Leather Package enhances its sports car performance and overall quality inside and out-
HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation has upgraded its four-door, four-seat, rotary engine-equipped RX-8 sports car, which is to be sold at Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealers throughout Japan. Mazda is commencing sales of the 5-speed and 6-speed manual transmission models and accepting orders for the new 6-speed automatic transmission (AT) version from today. The 6-speed AT RX-8 goes on sale in mid-October 2006.
Mazda RX-8 Type E with Sand Beige Leather Package (6-speed AT)
Since sales began in April 2003, the RX-8 has received widespread acclaim as a unique sports car powered by a rotary engine, in which four adults can ride comfortably.
The newly-adopted 6-speed AT model delivers reassuringly smooth acceleration and improved noise reduction at high speeds. In addition, a 6-port design of its rotary engine—2 ports more than the prior model—improves the intake efficiency, and the newly-added Active Adaptive Shift (AAS) control raises the ride quality and enjoyment of driving a sports car.
Additionally, new accessories improve the vehicle's quality feel. For its exterior and interior, Mazda has introduced the "Sand Beige Leather Package" to the Type S and Type E models. The exterior features two new body colors, with a stark blue "Stormy Blue Mica" and radiant white "Crystal White Pearl Mica" having been added to the body color range to further emphasize the RX-8's sporty pedigree and reputation for quality.
The monthly sales target for the upgraded RX-8 is set at 600 units a month.
Main features of the upgraded RX-8 Advancements to the AT models 6-speed automatic transmission The adoption of the 6-speed AT, increased by two speeds over the base 4-speed, enabled the overall gear ratio range to be widened and the gaps between each gear to be reduced to achieve a better close ratio. This results in a more powerful, smoother acceleration and reduces shift shock, while improving noise reduction at high speeds and increasing fuel efficiency. Adoption of the 6-port engine The 6-port engine that up to now has only been used in the RX-8 Type S (6-speed manual transmission model) has been adopted for the 6-speed automatic transmission version, which until now mounted only a 4-port engine. This development pushes up the power output by increasing intake efficiency as well as further enhancing the torque produced at high revs--one of the special features of the rotary engine.
Advanced AAS (Active Adaptive Shift) The AAS function optimizes transmission shift points based on driver input using data from various sensors (for example, in the accelerator and brake pedals) and vehicle handling (rate of acceleration, cornering etc), and this function has been further advanced in the upgraded RX-8. Accordingly, the AAS helps enhance the vehicle's performance whether it is being driven in a relaxed way or more aggressively.
Interior/exterior upgrades Sand Beige Leather Package The following factory-installed options are available on the Type S and Type E models and improve its quality and sporty image: - Sand beige-colored leather upholstery (with 8-way power adjustable seats and power adjustable lumber support) with door trims coordinated to suit. - Leather steering wheel trim (2-piece type; the base model has the 4-piece type as standard). - A leather-wrapped parking brake handle. - Advanced keyless entry & starter system with two advanced keys. - Water repellent glass coating (windshield glass, front door glasses, and door mirrors). - 225/45R 18-inch tires and alloy wheels. (These are special equipment for the 6-speed AT, but are standard equipment on the MT model.) - Front fog lights (These are special equipment for the 6-speed AT, but are standard equipment on the MT model.) - Aluminum pedals (These are special equipment for the 6-speed AT, but are standard equipment on the MT model.)
Body colors Two sporty and high-quality body colors, "Stormy Blue Mica" and, "Crystal White Pearl Mica" have been added. There are now a total of eight colors for customers to choose from.
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices
* Price for the Type E model in the photo above
Grade/Models
Engine
Drive
Transmission
Price
With tax
Without tax
RX-8
Water-cooled two-rotor (654cc x 2)
RWD
5-speed MT
2,530,500
2,410,000
6-speed AT (Activematic)
2,562,000
2,440,000
RX-8 Type S
6-speed MT
2,898,000
2,760,000
RX-8 Type S Sand Beige Leather package
3,092,250
2,945,000
RX-8 Type E
6-speed AT(Activematic)
2,929,500
2,790,000
RX-8 Type E Sand Beige Leather package
3,092,250*
2,945,000
- For Crystal White Pearl Mica body color, the price increases by 31,500 yen (with sales tax). - A separate recycling fee of 12,230 yen is necessary in addition to the manufacturer's suggested retail prices listed above.
MAZDA ANNOUNCES THREE-YEAR AGREEMENT TO BECOME ENGINE PROVIDER FOR CHAMP CAR ATLANTIC CHAMPIONSHIP
IRVINE, Calif., Feb 14, 2006 – Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today announced it has entered into a three-year integrated marketing partnership with the Champ Car Atlantic Championship. Beginning in 2006, all Atlantic cars will be powered by a 300-hp 2.3-liter four-cylinder Mazda MZR engine prepared by Cosworth Engineering, mounted in identical Swift 016.a chassis and riding on Yokohama tires.
The series, now dubbed “ Yokohama Presents the Champ Car Atlantic Championship Powered by Mazda,� will compete with the cars of the Champ Car World Series on 12 street circuit and permanent road course race weekends throughout North America. All 2006 events will be broadcast on SPEED Channel and Mazda will help sponsor both Atlantic and Champ Car race broadcasts as part of the new agreement. An influx of new teams and the top rising stars in open-wheel racing will add to the excitement of the new-generation Atlantic Championship.
The MZR engine was designed by Mazda, and is produced both in Hiroshima, Japan and Hermosillo, Mexico. It is used in the company’s MAZDA3, MAZDA5, MAZDA6, MAZDASPEED6, Tribute and B-Series, as well as the Ford Focus, Escape, Fusion and Ranger.
“Adding the Atlantic series to the Mazda portfolio is the perfect addition to our open-wheel racing ladder: drivers can start in Club Racing in the steel-chassis rotary-powered Formula Mazda, graduate to the next level in the carbon-fiber-tub professional Formula Mazda, and then to the Mazda-powered Atlantic at the top rung,� said Robert Davis, MNAO’s senior vice president, product development and quality, and the man responsible for Mazda’s North American motorsports programs.
Mazda’s racing heritage goes back to the 1968 Marathon de la Route, a grueling 84-hour endurance race, where a Mazda Cosmo 110-S finished in fourth place. Since then, Mazda or Mazda-powered vehicles have visited victory circle in virtually every major race or racing series around the globe, including road-racing, rallying, drag racing, sprint cars, autocross and drifting. Mazda’s greatest motorsport victory was the winning of the 1991 24-Hours of Le Mans, the only Japanese manufacturer in history to ever achieve such a feat, despite the efforts of other larger and better-funded companies.
"We are delighted to welcome Mazda to the Atlantic family,� said Vicki O'Connor, managing director of the Yokohama Presents the Champ Car Atlantic Championship Powered by Mazda. “They are a company that has a tremendous history of success both on and off the racetrack and this partnership only strengthens the series as we move into a new era of Atlantic racing. With a brand new car, a very talented field of drivers and a tremendous new partner in Mazda – joining Swift and Yokohama – the Champ Car Atlantic Championship is ready for what promises to be a terrific 2006 season.�
As the Champ Car organization itself continues to grow in strength and reach for the 2006 season, Mazda’s involvement with the Atlantic series will give the company an opportunity to showcase its full lineup of stylish and spirited street cars to an entirely new audience.
"Mazda is not only joining the Atlantic series but also the entire Champ Car organization with today's announcement,� added Steve Johnson, Champ Car president and CEO. “We are pleased to have a company with Mazda's racing heritage partner with Champ Car and we look forward to building not only a great racing relationship but also a strong business partnership."
On any given weekend, there are more Mazdas on the road-race tracks of America than any other brand of vehicle. Mazda’s motorsport involvement even extends to the nation’s premier road-racing circuit, Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.
Mazda North American Operations is responsible for the sales and marketing, customer parts and services support of Mazda vehicles in the United States. Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., MNAO has more than 700 dealerships nationwide.
Beginning its 33rd season in 2006, the Champ Car Atlantic Championship is noted for its long history of graduating its stars into Champ Car competition, producing past Champ Car champions Paul Tracy, Jimmy Vasser, Bobby Rahal, Danny Sullivan, Michael Andretti and Jacques Villeneuve. 2005 Champ Car competitors Alex Tagliani, Andrew Ranger and Ronnie Bremer are also established Atlantic graduates, along with 2004 Champ Car Rookie of the Year and 2003 Atlantic champ A.J. Allmendinger. Competing in newly-designed Swift 016.a chassis powered by a 2.3-liter Mazda-Cosworth engine riding on Yokohama ADVAN Racing Slicks, 2006 competitors will fight for the 12-race championship and the unique $2 million Champ Car series champion's bonus.
- Mazda's Rotary-Powered Brand Icon Adds Six-Speed Automatic and New Package -
LOS ANGELES – Mazda today unveiled the 2006 model-year edition of its highly regarded RX-8 sports car. Highlights of the new model feature an upgraded 212-horsepower rotary engine, a new six-speed Sport AT automatic transmission and a "SHINKA"Special Edition package limited to only 1,500 vehicles.
The new transmission is mated to an upgraded RENESIS rotary engine, now tuned to produce 212-horsepower, an increase of 15-horsepower over the previous model. The "SHINKA"Special Edition package adds various exterior, interior and mechanical enhancements, bringing it to a higher level of sportiness.
"Since its launch in 2003 the RX-8 has been an absolute all-star, with an athletic exterior, an interior that offers comfort and practicality, and Mazda's trademark RENESIS rotary engine that continues to win accolades from automotive press,"said Tetsu Nakagawa, RX-8 vehicle line manager. "With the new six-speed automatic transmission and the addition of the SHINKA package, the RX-8 continues to get stronger in 2006."
The 2006 Mazda RX-8 is available as either a 232-horsepower model fitted with a six-speed manual transmission, or the new 212-horsepower model fitted with a six-speed automatic with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters for a Formula 1-style driving experience.
Both horsepower figures are SAE J1349 Certified Power, which is a new method of rating vehicle power for 2006. The SAE J1349 is an automotive standard written by the Society of Automotive Engineers to provide manufacturers with a method of certifying the power of engines.
The RX-8 "SHINKA"Special Edition takes its name from the Japanese word meaning "evolution"or "transformation"and mixes RX-8's sports car flavor with a touch of luxury. Available with either a six-speed manual or the new six-speed Sport A/T, the RX-8 SHINKA Special Edition features an upgraded and uniquely tuned suspension with uprated shock absorbers and urethane-filled cross-member supports for increased performance and ride comfort. In addition to SHINKA's unique leather/Alcantara ® seating surfaces, Mazda added leather to the handbrake lever, upgraded trim on the doors and center console, and revised the finish on the 18-inch alloy wheel. The SHINKA Special Edition also features a SIRIUS satellite radio system as standard, with a one-year subscription at no cost.
The heart of the RX-8 – and what makes its unique four-passenger cabin and nimble performance possible – is Mazda's unique rotary engine. Mazda is the only company in the world mass-producing the rotary engine for use in a passenger car.
By turning a triangular rotor in a cocoon-shaped combustion chamber, the
RX-8's rotary engine efficiently performs the four processes of intake, compression, combustion and exhaust. The RENESIS engine is remarkably smooth and high revving — all the way to 9,000 rpm (7,000 rpm on Sport A/T-equipped models) — and offers a smaller engine footprint than traditional internal combustion engines (some 60-percent smaller than a comparably powered V-6, and 40-percent smaller than a four-cylinder).
Improving upon 40 years of development, the RENESIS engine boasts side intake and exhaust ports with nearly 30-percent more intake area and twice as much exhaust area than previous rotary engines. The efficiencies gained through larger intake and exhaust ports excludes the need for forced induction.
The RX-8's normally aspirated 1.3-liter engine might appear diminutive to the untrained eye when compared to large displacement V-8s or heavy-weight V-10s or
V-12s. However, through the incredible efficiencies of a rotary powerplant, an advanced three-stage intake system and an electronic throttle, the RENESIS engine delivers smooth, linear power on a grand scale.
The trend of innovation in the engine bay continues to the RX-8's styling with its "freestyle"four-door design. Mazda has proven that a true sports car does not need to sacrifice space or convenience for performance. With ample passenger room for four full-size adults, it also offers enough trunk space for a weekend's worth of luggage.
Mazda engineers also incorporated numerous active and passive safety elements throughout the car. Active safety features include the use of large ABS-equipped disc brakes on all wheels as well as precise steering and suspension systems. Available Dynamic Stability Control provides superior handling and can be disabled when driving and road conditions allow.
Passive systems also are present throughout the RX-8. Despite the absence of a center B-pillar, the RX-8 has an exceptionally rigid body, a feat accomplished through the use of a series of locking pins, which hold the doors together and tie each door directly into the roof and floor. Integrating the frame components helps dissipate crash energy through the vehicle's structure.
The 2006 Mazda RX-8 comes with a four-year roadside assistance program. With a call to a toll-free number, RX-8 owners can access roadside assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year throughout the United States and Canada. For all 2006 Mazda vehicles, the company will provide a free loaner car in the event a warrantable condition requires alternative transportation.
The RX-8 is covered by a comprehensive four-year/50,000-mile warranty that covers every part on the vehicle except those subject to normal wear. In addition, the RX-8 is covered by a five-year/unlimited-mileage corrosion warranty.
Mazda North American Operations is responsible for the sales and marketing, customer parts and service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States. Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., MNAO has more than 700 dealerships nationwide.
IRVINE, Calif., Feb 14, 2006 – Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today announced it has entered into a three-year integrated marketing partnership with the Champ Car Atlantic Championship. Beginning in 2006, all Atlantic cars will be powered by a 300-hp 2.3-liter four-cylinder Mazda MZR engine prepared by Cosworth Engineering, mounted in identical Swift 016.a chassis and riding on Yokohama tires.
MAZDA ANNOUNCES 2006 RX-8
The RX-8 "SHINKA"Special Edition takes its name from the Japanese word meaning "evolution"or "transformation"and mixes RX-8's sports car flavor with a touch of luxury. Available with either a six-speed manual or the new six-speed Sport A/T, the RX-8 SHINKA Special Edition features an upgraded and uniquely tuned suspension with uprated shock absorbers and urethane-filled cross-member supports for increased performance and ride comfort. In addition to SHINKA's unique leather/Alcantara ® seating surfaces, Mazda added leather to the handbrake lever, upgraded trim on the doors and center console, and revised the finish on the 18-inch alloy wheel. The SHINKA Special Edition also features a SIRIUS satellite radio system as standard, with a one-year subscription at no cost. 
