Electric, and most recently hydrogen, engines have currently been the most popular topics on interest in the automobile industry. Mazda, the Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer, has decided to go against the grain with the announcement of their latest engine set to debut in 2027. While automobile companies have been announcing their latest alternative engine solutions, Mazda’s latest announcement however of their latest internal combustion engine is sure to be something of a controversy.
The push to change to alternative engine solutions
Automobile companies are increasingly announcing their latest alternative engine solutions as part of a growing push toward sustainability and reducing carbon emissions. Many automakers are unveiling new electric vehicle (EV) models with improved battery technology, longer ranges, and faster charging capabilities to respond to the rising demand for clean energy alternatives. Alongside EVs, some companies are exploring hydrogen fuel cell technology as a viable solution, particularly for larger vehicles or regions where charging infrastructure is limited.
Additionally, advancements in hybrid systems which combine traditional internal combustion engines with electric power are offering consumers more flexibility and efficiency to bridge the gap between conventional and fully electric cars. These innovations reflect the industry’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint with stepping stone technologies to meet stricter emissions regulations and to appeal to eco-conscious consumers who are not ready to embrace fully electric or hydrogen vehicles.
As governments worldwide implement policies to encourage cleaner transportation, automakers are racing to develop and refine these alternative engine technologies to secure their place in an increasingly competitive market. As consumers grow more eco-conscious, there is pressure on automobile companies to ditch the internal combustion all together and invest in sustainability.
Mazda’s new internal combustion engine
Mazda has recently announced not a new alternative engine solution, but instead a new internal combustion engine. The new engine will be a four-cylinder engine featuring their latest Skyactiv technology. Dubbed Skyactiv-Z, this innovative engine will eventually replace both the Skyactiv-X engines sold internationally and the Skyactiv-G engines currently available in North America in Mazda vehicles. The Skyactiv-Z is expected to deliver improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and enhanced performance.
To improve fuel efficiency and emissions of the new engine, it will use the Lambda 1 air-fuel ratio which helps helps reduce tailpipe emissions when driving at full power. Mazda also plans to expand the Skyactiv-Z technology to its inline-six engines. Other details about the new engine set to debut in 2027 models have yet to be revealed by Mazda.
The struggle to completely give up the internal combustion engine
While some may criticize Mazda’s decision to invest money and resources into improved internal combustion engines, Mazda has faced the reality that the internal combustion engine is not going anywhere anytime soon. While there is increasing pressure to transition to cleaner, more sustainable alternatives like electric vehicles (EVs), the widespread shift away from ICE vehicles faces significant hurdles.
For example, the existing infrastructure to support automobiles including fuel stations and repair networks is deeply entrenched in the ICE ecosystem. Making a rapid switch to EVs will be difficult without substantial investments in charging infrastructure. Additionally, there are technical challenges related to battery production, range limitations, and charging times that still need to be addressed to make EVs as convenient and affordable as traditional vehicles.
Furthermore, the global automotive industry is diverse. Different regions and markets relying heavily on ICE-powered vehicles to varying degrees due to factors such as cost, geographic conditions, and limited access to electric vehicle technology. Despite a strong movement towards electrification, the transition away from internal combustion engines is a gradual process that requires overcoming economic, logistical, and social barriers.
