Electric Cars

Revolutionizing Aerial Propulsion: Changan's Visionary Rotary Engine

The Rebirth of the Wankel: Changan's Pioneering Endeavor

The Wankel rotary engine, renowned for its distinctive triangular rotor and inherent smoothness, has found a new champion in the Chinese company Changan. While Mazda has historically been its most prominent advocate in the automotive world, this latest innovation signals a shift in the engine's application. Changan's R05E engine represents the first high-output rotary design from the region, with its prototype recently showcased and mass production anticipated to commence in 2027. This development, first hinted at in April through a partnership with AVL, highlights a forward-looking approach to propulsion systems.

Elevating Expectations: The Low-Altitude Economy's New Powerhouse

Defying conventional automotive uses, the R05E engine is specifically engineered for what is termed the "low-altitude economy." This encompasses a diverse array of aerial platforms including drones, electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles, and potentially future flying automobiles, all operating within 1,000 meters of the ground. China projects this sector to burgeon into a 3.5 trillion yuan market by 2035, positioning this engine at the forefront of a transformative industry.

Why Rotary? Advantages in the Aerial Domain

In a landscape increasingly leaning towards electric propulsion for aerial vehicles, Changan's decision to embrace rotary technology for the R05E is strategic. The company emphasizes the engine's inherent benefits: a remarkably smooth operational profile, compact dimensions, reduced noise output, and a superior power-to-weight ratio when juxtaposed with both traditional internal combustion engines and many electric alternatives. The R05E currently delivers 71 horsepower and can reach 6,500 rpm, with plans for a more potent variant already underway.

Engineered for Precision: Advanced Materials and Design

The R05E's sophisticated design incorporates a cast aluminum housing complemented by a nanodiamond composite (NDC) anti-friction coating. This material choice is crucial for minimizing energy losses within the engine. A single, distinctively curved-edge triangular rotor is meticulously paired with a lightweight eccentric shaft and an advanced balancing mechanism, all designed to ensure exceptional stability during flight operations.

Mazda's Shadow: An Independent Path to Rotary Innovation

Despite Changan's existing strategic alliance with Mazda in China, a collaboration that facilitates the market entry of vehicles like the EZ-6 sedan and EZ-60 SUV, Changan asserts that Mazda played no part in the R05E's development. This underscores Changan's independent pursuit of rotary engine innovation. While the R05E's compact size and output suggest potential as a range extender in hybrid automotive applications, Changan has not yet disclosed any intentions to integrate this engine into its production car lineup. Nevertheless, the emergence of such advanced rotary technology from Changan could inspire renewed interest and development within Mazda's own engineering endeavors.

This past year has been particularly eventful in the automotive sector, marked by rising average vehicle prices, the introduction of new import tariffs, and the cessation of federal incentives for electric vehicles. Despite these market fluctuations, buyers have consistently sought out new cars, trucks, SUVs, and minivans. An analysis of reader engagement over the year reveals the models that captured the most attention. The data, compiled from page views of 2025 make-and-model pages in the Buyer's Guide, surprisingly shows a strong dominance of SUVs, with traditional car body styles completely absent from the top ten. Notably, many of these highly-researched vehicles have also received prestigious '2025 10Best' and 'Editors' Choice' accolades from automotive experts, suggesting a convergence of consumer interest and critical approval.

Taking the tenth position is the 2025 Lexus GX, a mid-size off-roader that effectively combines robust exterior styling with a lavish interior. This unique blend has clearly resonated with American SUV enthusiasts. The vehicle also garnered significant praise from automotive reviewers, earning a spot on the 2025 Editors' Choice list, further validating its appeal among both the public and industry experts.

The 2025 Chevrolet Trax secures the ninth spot on the list, underscoring a prevailing trend in a year marked by financial volatility and persistent inflation. Its affordability likely played a significant role in its popularity, establishing it as one of the most budget-friendly SUVs available. Moreover, the Trax has been consistently recognized as a leading subcompact SUV, frequently appearing on annual '10Best' lists, cementing its status as a top choice for value-conscious consumers.

At number eight, the 2025 Genesis GV80 continues to impress with its smooth driving dynamics, luxurious features, and commanding presence. These qualities have not only captivated automotive staff but have also attracted a considerable number of consumers. Its competitive pricing, which often undercuts rivals in the luxury-SUV segment without compromising on premium offerings, is another key factor in its strong market performance.

The 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander comes in seventh, highlighting the strong demand for three-row SUVs, especially for family transport. Readers have clearly recognized its merits, placing it high on the list as a prime option within its class. The hybrid variant of the Grand Highlander also showed considerable popularity, ranking thirteenth overall, further demonstrating consumer interest in efficient and spacious family vehicles.

Claiming the sixth position is the 2025 Tesla Cybertruck, a vehicle known for its distinctive and often polarizing design. It commands a dedicated following, drawn by its impressive range, practical pickup capabilities, and unconventional aesthetic. While its design might divide opinions among experts, its undeniable functionality and utility as a truck are widely acknowledged and appreciated by its enthusiasts.

The fifth spot is held by the 2025 Mazda CX-50. Mazda's reputation for crafting enjoyable-to-drive vehicles is well-represented by this model. The CX-50 exemplifies how Mazda successfully infuses its athletic driving philosophy into a ruggedly styled crossover, earning it repeated Editors' Choice awards and a strong following among drivers who appreciate its dynamic performance.

In fourth place, the 2025 Honda CR-V stands as a perennial bestseller, lauded for its affordability, robust construction, practicality, and engaging driving experience. Its consistent popularity, shared with its hybrid counterpart, is no surprise given its well-rounded attributes, making it a reliable choice for a broad spectrum of buyers.

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser takes the third position, sharing lineage with the Lexus GX but distinguishing itself through its iconic nameplate and standard hybrid powertrain. Both the Land Cruiser and GX are considered excellent choices in their respective categories, and both have received Editors' Choice honors, attesting to their superior quality and performance.

Securing the second spot is the 2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid, mirroring the non-hybrid CR-V's success with its blend of versatility and appealing characteristics. This model's consistent recognition as a '10Best' and Editors' Choice winner further validates its broad consumer appeal, positioning it as a top contender in the two-row SUV segment.

The top spot on this year's list is proudly held by the 2025 Kia Telluride. Since its debut in 2020, this three-row SUV has been an overwhelming success, consistently featuring on the '10Best' list every year. Its remarkable popularity stems from its exceptional design, outstanding value proposition, and segment-leading sophistication. As Kia plans to reintroduce a completely redesigned Telluride in 2027 with new engine options, it will be interesting to observe if it can maintain its dominant position in the market.