Mazda is bringing again the rotary engine, however not as we all know it.

The automaker on Monday confirmed plans for a rotary vary extender for electrical variations of the MX-30. The compact crossover, which debuted in 2019, can be supplied in some markets with a light hybrid powertrain that depends on a 2.0-liter inline-4.

The rotary-equipped MX-30 will debut on Jan. 13 on the 2023 Brussels auto present. Gross sales in Europe are scheduled to observe within the spring, although availability within the U.S. hasn’t been introduced.

The MX-30 has been on sale within the U.S. because the 2022 mannequin yr, although solely in California.

Mazda stated the rotary engine within the range-extended MX-30 is a brand new design. The engine will function a generator, moderately than a direct supply of energy for movement.

The present MX-30 has a 35.5-kwh lithium-ion battery, which the EPA charges at simply 100 miles of vary. It is not clear how a lot vary the car could have with the rotary vary extender.

Mazda has already proven an electrical automotive with a rotary vary extender: the Mazda 2 RE Vary Extender idea unveiled in 2013. Its rotary was a single-rotor, 0.3-liter unit that with a full tank of gasoline might present a further 111 miles of vary.

Mazda’s struggles to scale back emissions of its rotary engine means a rotary-powered sports activities automotive is unlikely to return to market, except Mazda can by some means develop an electrified model that meets ever-tightening emissions rules, one thing the automaker seems to be trying, judging by current patents.

Each car in Mazda’s lineup could have some type of electrification by 2030. It is a part of the automaker’s overarching aim to realize a 90% discount in emissions versus its 2010 ranges, by the yr 2050.