According to AutoExpress, the next-generation Mazda RX-8 will be powered by a hydrogen engine. Hoping to get rid of the current models low fuel-economy, Mazda has decided to make its rotary engine more green by offering a engine that runs both, on hydrogen and petrol.

Mazda has been testing its RX-8 Hydrogen RE for more than two years now – most recently known as the Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid. The hydrogen/gasoline dual-fuel engine is mated to a hybrid system that converts energy from hydrogen combustion to electricity and uses it to power the motor.

AutoExpress says that Mazda will drop the RX-8 name and will go with the RX-9 nameplate. The car is expected to be rear-wheel-drive and will take major styling cues from the Taiki Concept. Sales are likely to kick off in 2012.

Mazda Taiki Concept:

Source: AutoExpress