Felix Wankel

Revolutionary engine designer without formal engineering training

Felix Wankel (1902-1988) defied conventional automotive engineering by inventing the rotary combustion engine (Wankel engine) that replaced traditional pistons with triangular rotor. This groundbreaking design demonstrated mechanical elegance with only two primary moving parts.

The self-taught engineer began developing his idea in 1924 while working at a publishing house. During WWII, he researched sealing technologies crucial for his engine. The first working prototype in 1957 produced 21 horsepower despite being gasoline-powered.

Mazda became primary automotive adopter, with Cosmo Sport 110S (1967) as first production car. Wankel engines powered 787B - the only rotary-powered car to win 24 Hours of Le Mans (1991).

Though challenged by emissions and fuel efficiency, Wankel's design influenced drone propulsion systems and range extenders for electric vehicles. The engineer held over 50 patents and received Honorary Doctorate from Technical University Munich despite never attending university.