Electric Cars

Mazda is seriously considering bringing back its iconic rotary engine in a new sports car, fueled by an extraordinary level of enthusiasm from within the company. However, the path to production for such a vehicle is fraught with financial considerations. The company is actively assessing market interest through concepts and internal discussions, with the ultimate goal of reviving a spiritual successor to the beloved RX-7 or RX-8 models.

Mazda's Rotary Ambitions: A Deep Dive into the Dream of a New Sports Car

In an interview with Auto Express, Moritz Oswald, Mazda Europe's Project Manager and Supervisor for Product Planning, confirmed the intense internal passion for a new flagship sports car featuring a rotary engine. He noted an "insane" number of enthusiasts within the company pushing for this project. While Mazda is exploring the possibility of an RX revival, the primary hurdle remains financial feasibility. The company, like any other, needs to ensure profitability before committing to such a specialized vehicle.

Concepts like the Iconic SP, unveiled in October 2023, and the Vision X-Coupe, presented last year, are not just design exercises. Mazda uses these concepts to gauge public and market interest, gathering crucial feedback to understand the potential demand for a rotary-powered sports car. Unlike the MX-30 R-EV, where the rotary engine primarily functions as a generator, a future production RX model would likely see the rotary engine directly powering the wheels, offering a more traditional sports car driving experience.

Despite a dedicated team working on rotary engine development and strong internal support, Chief Technology Officer Ryuichi Umeshita highlighted that finances are the "only outstanding issue." Mazda must balance the revival of a niche rotary sports car with its existing successful models, particularly the Miata. The company has assured that the MX-5 Miata's future is secure, regardless of whether a more expensive, larger performance model joins the lineup. The Miata, currently in its 11th year with the ND generation, is expected to continue with a fifth-generation model, retaining its core characteristics of rear-wheel drive, manual transmission, lightweight construction, and potentially a larger naturally aspirated engine. Therefore, while the dream of a new rotary sports car burns brightly within Mazda, its realization is not expected before the end of the decade, if at all.

The automotive world watches with bated breath as Mazda navigates the complexities of balancing its heritage, employee passion, and financial realities. The enduring allure of the rotary engine, with its unique characteristics and rich history, undoubtedly makes the prospect of a new RX model an exciting one. However, in today's dynamic automotive landscape, where profitability and market viability are paramount, Mazda's journey to rekindle the rotary sports car flame is a testament to both its innovative spirit and the challenges faced by smaller manufacturers in pursuing niche passions. The development of new models often comes with significant financial investment, and ensuring a return on that investment is crucial for the company's long-term health. Perhaps a hybrid approach or a strategic partnership could unlock the financial viability needed to bring this cherished dream to fruition. For now, the automotive community can only hope that the collective passion within Mazda, coupled with a sound business strategy, will eventually lead to the roar of a new rotary sports car on the streets.

American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) is set to captivate off-road enthusiasts with a limited-production offering: the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD ZR2 Bison in a vibrant Tangier Orange hue. This eye-catching color, typically a special order for fleet vehicles, transforms an already formidable truck into an unmistakable presence. While the Tangier Orange paint represents a modest addition to the overall cost, the complete AEV Bison upgrade, combined with the formidable base Silverado, elevates this vehicle into a high-end option. This exclusive release targets buyers who prioritize both extreme off-road prowess and a bold, attention-grabbing aesthetic on and off the trail.

This special edition is designed for those who appreciate both rugged performance and a distinctive style. The AEV Bison package enhances the Silverado 2500HD ZR2 with significant off-road upgrades, ensuring it can handle challenging terrains with ease. The integration of the Tangier Orange finish, a color rarely seen outside of commercial applications, makes this truck truly stand out. It merges aggressive capability with a unique visual appeal, creating a vehicle that is not only highly functional but also a statement piece. This combination of exclusivity and high performance positions the Tangier Orange AEV Silverado as a coveted item for serious truck collectors and adventurers alike.

Unveiling the Distinctive Tangier Orange Bison

American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) introduces a special series of Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD ZR2 Bison trucks, distinguished by an exclusive Tangier Orange paint finish. This unique color, usually reserved for specialized fleet applications with GM paint code 9W4, elevates the already commanding presence of the Silverado HD ZR2. AEV's decision to offer this vibrant hue in a limited run ensures that these trucks will be highly conspicuous, appealing to owners who desire an unmistakable and bold statement on the road and trail. The eye-catching orange accentuates the truck's rugged design, making it impossible to overlook.

The Tangier Orange option adds a mere $350 to the AEV Bison upfit package, making this distinctive paint a surprisingly accessible upgrade within the overall investment. This color, previously seen on a few Bison-equipped Silverado HDs, remains an uncommon sight, solidifying its limited-edition appeal. For those who seek a vehicle that defies subtlety and embraces an assertive visual identity, this Tangier Orange Silverado HD ZR2 Bison provides an exceptional opportunity to own a truck that seamlessly blends extreme off-road capability with a truly unique and attention-grabbing aesthetic. AEV's offering caters to a niche market looking for both performance and individuality.

Value and Exclusivity: The Cost of Unmissable Presence

While the Tangier Orange paint option for the AEV Silverado 2500HD ZR2 Bison adds only a nominal $350 to the conversion package, the overall cost of acquiring this highly capable and visually striking vehicle positions it firmly in the premium segment. The AEV Bison upfit, priced at $11,999, complements the factory ZR2 package by adding critical off-road enhancements such as 37-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 tires mounted on AEV Salta XD wheels, a robust front winch, auxiliary rear bumper lighting, and exclusive branding. These additions collectively contribute to an impressive and comprehensive off-road machine.

Considering the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD AEV Bison's starting price of $84,970, outfitting the truck with the full AEV package and the optional bronze finish for the Salta XD wheels (an additional $640) can push the total investment close to or exceeding $100,000. This significant price point reflects the extensive modifications and specialized equipment that transform the Silverado into an ultimate off-road powerhouse. For discerning buyers who prioritize extreme capability, unique aesthetics, and a commanding presence, this limited-run Tangier Orange Bison represents a worthwhile investment in a vehicle designed to stand out in any environment.