: Mazda - rotary engines

NAIAS: Next-generation Mazda engines

Sun, 13 Jan 2008 17:24:33 GMT

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 rocks again with a rotary-powered DeLorean!

Sat, 19 May 2007 15:46:45 GMT

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.

Continue at link: http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2007/05/delorean-with-300hp-mazda-rotary-engine.html

Mazda of Japan - upgraded 2007 RX-8

Thu, 24 Aug 2006 00:07:48 GMT

Mazda Begins Sales of Upgraded RX-8

-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 powers Champ Car Atlanta Championship

Wed, 15 Feb 2006 16:12:59 GMT

MAZDA ANNOUNCES THREE-YEAR AGREEMENT TO BECOME ENGINE PROVIDER FOR CHAMP CAR ATLANTIC CHAMPIONSHIP

IRVINE, Calif., Feb 14, 2006 â€“ 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 â€œ Yokohama Presents the Champ Car Atlantic Championship Powered by Mazda,â€� 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 companyâ€™s MAZDA3, MAZDA5, MAZDA6, MAZDASPEED6, Tribute and B-Series, as well as the Ford Focus, Escape, Fusion and Ranger.

â€œAdding 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,â€� said Robert Davis, MNAOâ€™s senior vice president, product development and quality, and the man responsible for Mazdaâ€™s North American motorsports programs.

Mazdaâ€™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. Mazdaâ€™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,â€� said Vicki O'Connor, managing director of the Yokohama Presents the Champ Car Atlantic Championship Powered by Mazda. â€œThey 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 â€“ joining Swift and Yokohama â€“ the Champ Car Atlantic Championship is ready for what promises to be a terrific 2006 season.â€�

As the Champ Car organization itself continues to grow in strength and reach for the 2006 season, Mazdaâ€™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,â€� added Steve Johnson, Champ Car president and CEO. â€œWe 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. Mazdaâ€™s motorsport involvement even extends to the nationâ€™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.

References:

2006 RX-8 Finally Introduced

Thu, 05 Jan 2006 23:04:26 GMT

MAZDA ANNOUNCES 2006 RX-8

- Mazda's Rotary-Powered Brand Icon Adds Six-Speed Automatic and New Package -

LOS ANGELES â€“ 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 Â® 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 â€“ and what makes its unique four-passenger cabin and nimble performance possible â€“ 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 â€” all the way to 9,000 rpm (7,000 rpm on Sport A/T-equipped models) â€” 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.

RX-8 on death watch?

Fri, 02 Dec 2005 03:44:15 GMT

Is the lifespan of the RX-8 numbered? With sales down to almost nothing, inventory backed up on dealers lots (a local dealer is offering $199 leases!), and still no 2006 model introduction - could the end be near?

Mazda Press Release follows (blue highlight is mine)

MAZDA ANNOUNCES NOVEMBER '05 SALES

		Month-To-Date			Year-To-Date

	November	November	%	November	November	%
	2005	2004	Change	2005	2004	Change

Mazda3	6,691	4,071	64%	90,502	70,662	28%

Mazda5	709	-	N/A	3,730	-	N/A

Mazda6	4,122	6,781	(39)%	66,677	65,142	2%

Miata	1,629	543	200%	8,794	8,673	1%

RX-8	884	1,288	(31)%	13,688	22,337	(39)%

Protégé	-	(1)	(100)%	-	6,368	(100)%

626	-	-	N/A	2	14	(86)%

Millenia	-	-	N/A	-	18	N/A

MPV	1,437	1,355	6%	16,063	23,189	(31)%

Mazda Truck	318	599	(47)%	5,460	9,605	(43)%

Tribute	2,027	2,982	(32)%	34,267	37,008	(7)%

Total Vehicles

CARS	14,035	12,682	11%	183,393	173,214	6%

TRUCKS	3,782	4,936	(23)%	55,790	69,802	(20)%

TOTAL	17,817	17,618	1%	239,183	243,016	(2)%


MEMO:

IMPORT CAR	9,913	5,901	68%	116,714	108,058	8%
IMPORT TRUCK	1,437	1,355	6%	16,063	23,189	(31)%
IMPORT TOTAL	11,350	7,256	56%	132,777	131,247	1%

DOMESTIC CAR	4,122	6,781	(39)%	66,679	65,156	2%
DOMESTIC TRUCK	2,345	3,581	(35)%	39,727	46,613	(15)%
DOMESTIC TOTALS	6,467	10,362	(38)%	106,406	111,769	(5)%

Mazda shows direct-injected rotary

Wed, 05 Oct 2005 09:32:44 GMT

Interesting Mazda press release, discussing an experimental direct-injection rotary engine (with hybrid power). And note that the 2.3 direct-injected turbo 2.3 will be used in several applications beyond the MazdaSpeed6.

October 5, 2005

Mazda SENKU and All New Mazda MPV to be Exhibited
at the 39th Tokyo Motor Show

Tokyo, October 4, 2005. Mazda Motor Corporation has announced that it will showcase the world premiere of the Mazda SENKU concept vehicle, as well as the Japan debut of the Mazda MX-Crossport concept, at the 39th Tokyo Motor Show, to be held at Makuhari Messe, Chiba prefecture, from Wednesday, October 19 through Sunday, November 6, 2005.

Joining them on the Mazda stand will be the all-new Mazda MPV, soon to be launched in Japan. Also exhibited at the Tokyo show will be the Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid concept vehicle-offering both Zoom-Zoom driving pleasure, outstanding eco-friendliness and -and the next-generation MZR 2.3 DISI Turbo and Advanced Driver-Support Technologies.

Mazda will display a wide variety of vehicles and technologies that demonstrate its product-led growth to visitors, highlighting the progress of Mazda Momentum, its mid-term corporate management plan that was launched in November 2004.

Mazda SENKU, ‘a four-seater rotary sports car for adults’, is a concept car that reflects a new direction for four-seater rotary sports cars designed with mature drivers in mind.

The concept clearly demonstrates how Mazda continues to offer new and unique Zoom-Zoom driving qualities in the face of increasing environmental and safety requirements and diversifying customer demands posed by societal changes.

Mazda MX-Crossport-an entirely new breed of vehicle that combines the merits of a sports car and an SUV-was first introduced to the public in January at the 2005 North America International Auto Show in Detroit. The Tokyo Motor Show marks its debut in Japan. The Mazda MX-Crossport indicates a direction that Mazda’s future products could take as it further expands its lineup of new generation products.

The all-new Mazda MPV, planned to be launched first in Japan as part of its global rollout, is a further evolution of the original MPV’s user-friendly packaging. It reflects Mazda DNA within a relaxing interior, refined and stylish design, and outstanding driving pleasure that far surpasses that of a conventional minivan.

The Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE (rotary engine) Hybrid concept features a hybrid power unit that combines a dual-fuel, hydrogen/gasoline rotary engine with an electric motor. The power unit is transversely mounted at the front in a front-wheel drive layout. The development team aimed to produce a vehicle with outstanding driving and environmental performance along with a comfortable, roomy interior.

Other exhibits include a Mazda RX-8 equipped with the hydrogen RE engine that is viable for practical uses, with plans for commercial leasing in the future. Also on exhibit will be the next-generation MZR 2.3 DISI Turbo engine with direct injection that achieves clean, powerful performance; the Smart Idling Stop System which eliminates the need for an electric starter motor, and delivers quiet and quick starting; and Advanced Driver-Support Technologies that incorporates intelligent transport systems. Mazda is developing unique technologies to create vehicles that combine care for the environment while still retaining the Zoom-Zoom spirit. Test rides in the Mazda RX-8 Hydrogen RE are available at the Clean Energy Vehicle Test Ride event site.

Major exhibits

Reference exhibits	Concept vehicle	Mazda SENKU (World premiere)
		Mazda MX-Crossport (Japan premiere)
		Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid (World premiere)
	Scheduled for launch/lease	All New MPV (World premiere)
		Tribute Hybrid (World premiere)
		RX-8 Hydrogen RE (World premiere)
Technical exhibits		All new MPV cut body
		MAZDA G-BOOK ALPHA
	Environment	MZR 2.3 DISI Turbo engine cut model
		RENESIS Hydrogen rotary engine
		Smart Idling Stop System (World premiere)
	Safety	Advanced Driver-Support Technologies
Vehicles on market		All New Mazda MX-5/Roadster, RX-8, Mazdaspeed6/Mazda6 MPS/Mazdaspeed Atenza, Mazda5/Premacy, others

* Mazda will exhibit a total of 22 vehicles (18 vehicles on October 19th press day.)

Main exhibits
1. Reference exhibits
Mazda SENKU
The pursuit of dreams and confident self-expression are becoming more widespread among mature drivers. Mazda SENKU, ‘a four-seater rotary sports car for adults’, offers a radical new departure in satisfying these desires. Its overarching design concept is "sharpness and mellowness,” and these contradictory factors are cleverly integrated to create a next-generation design standard. The features include an ultra-long wheelbase, minimal overhangs, a unique “floating” appearance supported by large tires, a smoothly dignified shape devoid of all ornamentation, and large "flying wing" electric-powered sliding doors. These elements come together in a revolutionary coupe form that is both dynamic and supremely elegant. In the cabin, personal space was designed to give priority to the people seated in the front seats, and interior trim was executed in supple, high-quality leather.

Located between the front and rear axles is the next-generation 13B-DI direct injection gasoline rotary engine with a hybrid unit.

This direct injection RE hybrid achieves high power output and lower fuel consumption along with the ideal 50:50 front/rear weight distribution and a low center of gravity, characteristic of Mazda sports cars, providing fun and dynamic driving.

The name “Senku” is a Japanese term meaning “pioneer”, depicting Mazda’s spirit of pursuing unique and exciting ventures - such as the rotary engine.

Mazda MX-Crossport
The Mazda MX-Crossport is an entirely new breed of vehicle that combines the merits of a sports car with those of an SUV. Pushing the envelope of Mazda design DNA, it moves the Zoom-Zoom spirit in a fresh direction thanks to the Advanced Frontier design concept that takes Mazda MX-Crossport beyond the boundaries of conventional SUVs and crossovers, and into the realm of sports cars. Aggressively athletic styling is bold, strong, distinctive and instantly recognizable as Mazda, while, on the inside, four bucket seats and a sporty interior design enhance driving pleasure. A wide variety of driving support functions with advanced IT are also featured.

Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid
The power unit for the Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid concept incorporates a hydrogen rotary engine, offering dual-fuel driving with hydrogen and gasoline, in tandem with an electric motor. The hydrogen rotary engine and the hybrid unit are transversely mounted at the front of the car in a FF layout, with the high-voltage battery located beneath the second-row seats and the high-pressure hydrogen tank beside the third row seat. This efficient packaging allows the Hydrogen RE-based hybrid system to achieve outstanding environmental and driving performance as well as a comfortably roomy interior.

All New Mazda MPV
The soon-to-be-launched All New Mazda MPV is engineered for those who truly appreciate the minivan, with quality that inspires great pleasure in ownership, sophisticated styling that tells of the owner’s discrimination and taste, and dynamic performance typical of Mazda’s DNA. Mazda’s vision of the next-generation touring minivan not only offers all the interior space and utility of conventional minivans, it also has graceful proportions with taut, athletic lines, and an open and spacious interior -projecting an air of high quality.
The direct-injection MZR 2.3 DISI Turbo engine and 6-speed automatic transmission deliver high fuel efficiency and low emissions, along with spirited performance far beyond the norm for a minivan.

And the newly developed high-rigidity body complements the high power engine with sporty handling, combined with a comfortable ride.

Technical exhibits
Environmental technologies
MZR 2.3 DISI Turbo
Thanks to direct injection and a turbocharger, this engine-despite a relatively small displacement of 2.3 liters-achieves high, flat torque and superb response comparable to a 3.5 to 4-liter V6 power plant, in addition to superior fuel efficiency and environmental performance. MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo for Mazdaspeed6/Mazda6 MPS/Mazdaspeed Atenza is the only turbo engine produced in Japan that meets SU-LEV standards. This high-power, eco-friendly engine is mounted in the Mazdaspeed6/Mazda6 MPS/Mazdaspeed Atenza and will also power other sports-grade vehicles, including the all-new Mazda MPV.

Smart Idling Stop System
The Smart Idling Stop System eliminates the use of an electric starter motor to achieve quicker, quieter and more reliable restarting. The system precisely controls piston position when the engine stops, injecting a small amount of fuel, causing the engine to run slightly in reverse. The system then ignites the fuel in the cylinder that has begun compressing due to the engine's reverse rotation, restarting the engine.

Safety technologies: Integrated Vehicle Dynamics Control System
A computer monitors the inputs received from the accelerator pedal, steering wheel, and brake pedal and uses them to determine the driver’s intentions. These are then compared with data from sensors to determine how much the vehicle's actual behavior differs from what the driver wanted to do. Whenever the results indicate the risk of a skid, the computer takes control of the brakes and engine and actively countersteers through the electric power-steering system.

Sideswipe-Preventing Communication System
At junctions where the driver or onboard sensors and cameras cannot see or detect oncoming vehicles that are obscured by vehicles turning right or vehicles approaching from the sides, the Sideswipe-Preventing Communication System exchanges data with approaching vehicles, alerts the driver to their presence using a display and audible warnings, thereby helping to prevent a sideswipe collision.

Adaptive Front Lighting System
The Adaptive Front Lighting System automatically turns the vehicle’s low beams on in accordance with the steering angle and vehicle speed, illuminating the path through a curve or junction, enabling safer driving at night. This advanced active safety technology will make its market debut in the all-new Mazda MPV.

900-hp triple-rotor turbo'd RX-8

Sat, 29 Jan 2005 16:52:34 GMT

http://www.urbanracer.com/articles/anmviewer.asp?a=1239&;z=16

Ward's 10 Best Engines 2005

Wed, 22 Dec 2004 16:32:17 GMT

Ward's 10 Best Engines 2005

The 2005 winners, along with the vehicles they were tested in:

· Audi FSI 3.2L DOHC V-6 (Audi A6)

· Audi 4.2L DOHC V-8 (Audi S4)

· DaimlerChrysler 5.7L Hemi Magnum OHV V-8 (Chrysler 300C)

· DaimlerChrysler 3.2L DOHC I-6 CDI Turbodiesel (Mercedes E320 CDI)

· Ford 4.6L SOHC V-8 (Ford Mustang GT)

· General Motors 4.2L DOHC Vortec I-6 (Chevrolet TrailBlazer)

· Honda 3L SOHC V-6 IMA Hybrid (Honda Accord Hybrid)

· Honda 3.5L SOHC V-6 (Acura RL)

· Mazda 1.3L Renesis rotary (Mazda RX-8)

· Nissan 3.5L DOHC V-6 (Infiniti G35 Coupe)