Mazda RX8 Hydrogen Rotary Engine

The Mazda RX8 Hydrogen Rotary Engine (RE) concept showcased in 2004.  At the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS).  The RX8 Hydrogen is designed to run on either hydrogen or gasoline. In February 2006, Mazda revealed that it would start leasing a dual fuel RX8 to commercial customers in Japan, and in March 2006 announced its first two customers, claiming the first fleet deliveries of a dual hydrogen/gasoline production car.  The Mazda RX8 Hydrogen features a fuel system that consists of a high-pressure hydrogen tank. This RX8 balances the needs of the driving enthusiast and the environmentalist. As the auto industry turns its attention to hydrogen fuel as a gasoline alternative, the Mazda RX8 Hydrogen RE offers a hydrogen-powered version of RENESIS.  

The Mazda RX8 Hydrogen RE incorporates an electronically controlled hydrogen injector system, with the hydrogen injected as a gas. The system draws air from the side port during the intake cycle and uses dual hydrogen injectors in each of the engine's twin rotor housings to directly inject hydrogen into the intake chambers. In addition to the revolutionary hydrogen-powered RENESIS rotary engine, the Mazda RX8 Hydrogen RE concept benefits from improved aerodynamics and optimized tires and weight-saving measures through the use of such materials as carbon fiber. A fast-fill tandem master cylinder reduces brake drag and friction hub carriers help cut power losses. The vehicle also incorporates a host of other technologies for exceptional environmental compatibility. Three-layer, wet-on water-based paint on the RX8 Hydrogen RE dramatically reduces the emission of organic solvents, saves energy by shortening the drying process and reduces carbon dioxide emissions. Moreover, the plant-based plastics used for the vehicle's interior parts provide an attractive alternative to plastics derived from fossil fuels such as petroleum.