2023 Tokyo Motor Present: Mazda Iconic SP Idea | The Day by day Drive
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Will the next-generation of the MX-5 Miata be rotary powered?
Revealed within the days main as much as the 2023 Tokyo Motor Present (now formally the Japan Mobility Present), the Mazda Iconic SP Idea might symbolize the Way forward for the maker’s sporty MX-5 Miata sports activities automotive.
The Iconic SP is about 10 inches longer than the Miata, and rides on a 102-inch wheel base. The true change, nonetheless is discovered underneath the hood.
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The Iconic SP is powered by a 2-rotor Wankel engine positioned aft of the passenger compartment. The rotary engine, per Mazda, might be powered by any of a variety of fuels, together with hydrogen. Much more attention-grabbing, the engine doesn’t immediately energy the Iconic SP, however as an alternative drives a generator which gives electrical energy to an electrical motor, which we assume is on the rear axle.
This serial hybrid system is just like Nissan’s e-Energy system, which is employed in a variety of small autos offered exterior of the U.S.
All of this drivetrain gear does take a toll on weight, and the Iconic SP checks in about 800 kilos heavier than the current-generation MX-5 Miata.
Per Mazda President and CEO, Masahiro Moro, “We love the MX-5, and the world loves the MX-5. We’re decided within the age of electrification to maintain the enjoyment of driving which the MX-5 represents alive, and the Mazda Iconic SP, with its dual-rotary energy generator EV powertrain, is our dream answer.”
Although the idea reportedly seems prepared for manufacturing, no phrase has been given concerning a timeline for manufacturing, assuming the Iconic SP is destined for manufacturing.
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CG Says:
Given the MX-Miata’s comparatively low manufacturing numbers, we discover it tough to imagine {that a} mid-engine, multi-fuel, serial-hybrid substitute for the beloved sports activities automotive is imminent. The drivetrain upgrades alongside would probably add $10,000 to the automotive’s base value, placing it out of attain of many—probably most—reasonably priced sports-car customers.
Mazda does appear hell-bent on constructing one thing powered by a rotary engine, so we wouldn’t be stunned to see restricted manufacturing of a bigger automobile, maybe the maker’s CX-90, powered by a complicated drivetrain on the order of the one being featured within the Iconic SP.
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Mazda Iconic SP Idea Gallery
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