Mazda is delving into avenues to sustain the pleasure associated with driving uncomplicated, lightweight sports cars such as the MX-5 Miata in the evolving landscape of electric vehicles.
The automaker offered a glimpse into one such approach when it unveiled the Iconic SP concept at the Tokyo Auto Show 2023. This method sidesteps the burdensome weight commonly associated with electric vehicles by incorporating a smaller battery, complemented by a range extender. Specifically, the range extender in question is a compact, lightweight rotary engine.
Contrary to initial assumptions that the Iconic SP could be a harbinger of a future Miata, its design and dimensions suggest it might actually be more akin to a contemporary RX sports car. It features a fixed roof and occupies a larger footprint than the Miata.
The aesthetics of the Iconic SP draw inspiration from Mazda’s RX-Vision concept, which was presented at the Tokyo Auto Show in 2015. Consequently, its overall form and dimensions bear a greater resemblance to the RX sports car lineage rather than the Miata. The interior design is minimalist, featuring an automatic transmission.
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Specifications of the Mazda Iconic SP Concept
The concept vehicle has a weight of approximately 3,200 pounds, marking it nearly 1,000 pounds heavier than the current-generation Miata. To compensate for the added weight, the power output has been elevated to 370 horsepower, effectively doubling the output of the existing Miata.
While Mazda refrained from disclosing detailed specifications of the powertrain, it did note that the range extender is a compact, twin-rotor rotary engine. This engine is designed to be scalable and possesses the capability to operate on a variety of fuel types, including hydrogen.
The concept of utilizing a rotary engine as a range extender for electric vehicles is not new for Mazda. Earlier this year, the company introduced a similar configuration in its MX-30 electric compact crossover in certain markets. Known as the R-EV, this range-extended MX-30 features a battery half the size of its regular counterpart, with a capacity of 17.8 kWh. When equipped with a full tank of gasoline and a fully charged battery, Mazda projects that the extended-range MX-30 will be capable of traversing more than 300 miles.
During the concept’s unveiling in Tokyo, Mazda’s CEO Masahiro Moro described the Iconic SP as representing the company’s “ideal” answer to preserving the thrill of driving in an era dominated by electric vehicles. He affirmed that considerable efforts are being expended to bring this vision to fruition in the marketplace.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Mazda Electric Sports Car with Rotary Range Extender
What is Mazda’s new concept called and where was it revealed?
The new concept from Mazda is named the Iconic SP, and it was unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Show in 2023.
What is unique about the Iconic SP’s approach to electric vehicle design?
The Iconic SP employs a unique approach by using a smaller battery in combination with a rotary range extender. This allows the vehicle to maintain a relatively low weight compared to traditional electric vehicles.
Does the Iconic SP represent a future version of the MX-5 Miata?
Contrary to initial speculations, the Iconic SP’s design and larger footprint suggest that it may not be a future iteration of the MX-5 Miata. Instead, it could be more closely related to a modern RX sports car.
What are the weight and power specifications for the Iconic SP?
The Iconic SP concept weighs approximately 3,200 pounds and has a power output of 370 horsepower. This is nearly 1,000 pounds heavier and about double the power output of the current MX-5 Miata.
What type of range extender does the Iconic SP feature?
The range extender in the Iconic SP is a compact, twin-rotor rotary engine that is scalable and can operate on multiple types of fuel, including hydrogen.
Has Mazda previously used a rotary engine as a range extender?
Yes, Mazda has previously implemented a rotary engine as a range extender in the MX-30 electric compact crossover in certain markets. This vehicle, badged as an R-EV, features a smaller battery and is capable of covering more than 300 miles with a full tank of gas and a fully charged battery.
What did Mazda’s CEO Masahiro Moro say about the Iconic SP?
Mazda CEO Masahiro Moro stated that the Iconic SP concept represents Mazda’s “ideal” solution to maintaining the joy of driving in the age of electrification. He also mentioned that the company is diligently working to bring this concept to the market.
How does the Iconic SP compare aesthetically to Mazda’s previous concepts?
The aesthetics of the Iconic SP are inspired by Mazda’s RX-Vision concept, which was presented at the Tokyo Auto Show in 2015. Consequently, its overall shape and proportions more closely resemble an RX sports car rather than a Miata.
What is the battery size of the MX-30 R-EV, a similar concept by Mazda?
The MX-30 R-EV features a battery with a capacity of 17.8 kWh, which is half the size of the battery in the regular MX-30.
What fuels can the Iconic SP’s range extender operate on?
The range extender in the Iconic SP is designed to be flexible and can operate on various types of fuel, including hydrogen.
More about Mazda Electric Sports Car with Rotary Range Extender
- Mazda Official Website
- 2023 Tokyo Auto Show Highlights
- Mazda’s Rotary Engine History
- Overview of Electric Sports Cars
- Advances in Automotive Electrification Technologies
- Mazda MX-30 Official Specs and Features
- Mazda RX-Vision Concept Overview
- Hydrogen as an Alternative Fuel Source for Vehicles
- Market Trends in Electric Vehicle Range Extenders
7 comments
370 HP! Man, they’re trying to give this thing some real punch. But what’s up with the automatic transmission, a sports car should have manual options too right?
Totally into the rotary engine making a comeback. But it’s not a Miata successor? kinda disappointed to be honest.
Mazda’s making strategic moves entering the EV sports car niche. But let’s not forget, execution is key. Can they pull it off with that weight and still claim its a sports car?
smaller battery with a range extender seems like a smart move. Less weight from the battery, but can still go the distance. I’m watching this one closely.
Wow, Mazda’s really pushing the envelope with this one, huh? A rotary range extender, that’s something. But 3200 pounds? they better make sure it’s worth the weight.
Hydrogen option is intriguing, definitely adds flexibility to the range extender. Curious to see how this develops.
Love that they’re paying homage to the RX-Vision concept. The aesthetics sound spot on, but whats the point if it weighs so much more than the Miata?