Yahoo Autos Mazda isn't ready to give up on combustion engines just yet
As many automakers rush to embrace electric vehicles, Mazda is standing out by refining its gas-powered engines instead.
Set to launch in 2027, Mazda’s newly revealed Skyactiv-Z engine will replace the current Skyactiv-G in U.S. models, showing Mazda’s commitment to creating lower-emission vehicles without ditching internal combustion technology entirely.
Mazda
Advanced emissions tech with the Lambda 1 Ratio
The Skyactiv-Z will introduce a Lambda 1 air-fuel ratio across the entire rev range, a balanced mixture that helps to lower emissions under all driving conditions. Mazda says this technology will make the Skyactiv-Z significantly cleaner than its predecessors, positioning it to meet stricter emission standards like California’s LEV IV.
While Mazda has kept performance specs under wraps, they have confirmed that the Lambda 1 ratio technology will also expand to their six-cylinder engines, bringing a consistent approach to greener combustion across the lineup.
Related: Mazda’s Iconic SP is finally headed for production, rotary engine and all
The rotary revival goes green
Alongside with the Skyactiv-Z, Mazda is reviving its rotary engine in an upcoming production model: the Iconic SP sports coupe. Inspired by the beloved RX-7, the Iconic SP pairs a rotary engine with an electric drivetrain to create a unique hybrid experience. First revealed as a concept in 2023, this model’s dual-rotor rotary engine acts as a range extender for the EV setup, producing a combined 365 horsepower.
In the Iconic SP, the rotary engine has been adapted for eco-friendly goals, as Mazda claims it could run on carbon-neutral fuels and cut emissions by up to 90%. The company is also exploring CO2-capturing tech, hinting at an ambitious future for this classic engine.
Mazda
Related: Porsche announces new Taycan models amid declining sales
Final thoughts
The industry is in a tough spot right now regarding the drivetrain technology propelling new car models. While increasingly stringent government emissions standards are pushing for greater EV adoption, waning consumer enthusiasm has hurt EV sales growth.
Combined with possible cuts to federal EV incentives under the incoming Trump administration, automakers will likely have an even harder time selling EVs over the coming years. In that context, some automakers, like Mazda, are reorienting themselves towards developing more efficient ICE engines and hybrid arrangements. The big question is whether Mazda’s strategy will give them a leg up on the competition, or if they’ll get left behind in the race towards lower-emission vehicles.
