At the 2023 Tokyo auto present, Mazda unveiled the Iconic SP, a hybrid sports activities automotive idea that reimagines the automaker’s rotary-engine heritage for an electrified future.
Mazda did not invent the Wankel rotary engine, nevertheless it did popularize it with rotary-powered sports activities vehicles, notably the RX-7. It hasn’t constructed such a automotive for the reason that RX-8 ended manufacturing resulted in 2012. Mazda has since reintroduced the rotary as a variety extender within the MX-30 R-EV (which will not be bought within the U.S.), however the Iconic SP reveals how rotary energy could possibly be reinstated in its most recognizable kind.
The Iconic SP combines a two-rotor engine (versus the single-rotor engine within the MX-30 R-EV) which costs a battery pack, suggesting a series-hybrid method. Mazda was mild on particulars for the electrical facet of the powertrain, however mentioned the mixture is nice for 365 hp, propelling a automotive weighing 3,196 lbs. Mazda additionally claims a great 50/50 entrance/rear weight distribution.
Mazda Iconic SP idea
While there isn’t any seen cost port, the Mazda press launch mentions that, along with being charged by the engine, the battery may also be charged “with electricity derived from renewable energy,” implying that it’s a plug-in hybrid. It additionally states that the Iconic SP is designed to “supply power when enjoying outdoor leisure and in the time of a disaster,” hinting at bidirectional charging functionality.
The two-rotor engine can also be designed to run on “carbon-neutral fuel” in addition to hydrogen. This multi-fuel method could possibly be one other think about saving the rotary engine for makes use of past the range-extender operate seen within the MX-30 R-EV.
![Mazda Iconic SP concept Mazda Iconic SP concept](https://i0.wp.com/images.hgmsites.net/lrg/mazda-iconic-sp-concept_100903673_l.jpg?resize=640%2C360&ssl=1)
Mazda Iconic SP idea
The curvaceous, low-slung styling of the Iconic SP brings to thoughts the final-generation FD RX-7 of the Nineteen Nineties. The Iconic SP even has an up to date model of the RX-7’s pop-up headlights. At 164.5 inches lengthy, the idea is 10.4 inches longer than the present Mazda MX-5 Miata which, with its very mild development and back-to-basics method, will be the greenest sports activities automotive proper now (excluding potential EVs).
If the Iconic SP reaches manufacturing, its rotary engine and potential sequence hybrid system would make it distinctive. Series hybrids aren’t an ideal match for high-performance or luxurious vehicles, as Infiniti has discovered. Maybe Mazda can work its magic?
Source: www.greencarreports.com