The Mazda RX-8 is soon to retire. The RX-8 is the only model in the Mazda lineup that is powered by a rotary engine, but Mazda is reportedly working on a new Wankel engine. It’s been reported that Mazda is working on a new rotary engine for the RX-8’s successor, the RX-9, that will be powered by a rotary engine mated to Toyota’s hybrid drive system. Now there are new rumors that Mazda is reportedly talking to Audi about its new Wankel engine. 
Inside Line is reporting that there are at least 100 engineers working on the new Mazda engine. One new advancement for the engine is the adoption of a laser ignition system that does away with the need for spark plugs, boosts efficiency and lowers emissions. There isn’t much information about what Mazda and Audi have discussed, but Audi did unveil the Audi A1 e-tron Concept in 2010, that was powered by a Wankel engine mated to an electrical generator.
There could be a possibility that Mazda may be talking to Audi about supplying a version of its new Wankel engine for use in a future Audi.
The good news is that it looks like the rotary engine will still exist beyond the RX-8.
Full Story: Inside Line
