Mazda has a history of pushing the boundaries of engineering, and it’s perhaps best known for pioneering the Wankel engine, which brought a unique approach to combustion engines. The Wankel engine, with its spinning rotor inside a housing, captured the imagination of many, including enthusiasts of the iconic RX-7. This sports car embodied the essence of the Wankel powertrain, with a captivating exterior and a free-revving, free-spirited motor that could be tuned for immense power but sometimes had a reputation for being a bit temperamental.
At this year’s Japan Mobility show, Mazda ignited the excitement of RX-7 aficionados by unveiling the Mazda Iconic SP concept. This concept not only pays homage to the legendary RX-7 in its design but also resurrects the rotary engine in a forward-thinking manner.
In the Iconic SP, Mazda introduces a two-rotor, rotary EV system. This innovative system involves a small-capacity engine that charges the battery rather than directly driving the wheels. Mazda already employs a similar approach with the MX-30 R-EV, but the Iconic SP concept takes this concept a step further.
What sets this concept apart is its ability to run on various fuel sources, including hydrogen. This flexibility allows it to generate electricity in a “carbon-neutral” manner. The small rotary engine is positioned in the middle of the car to achieve a 50:50 weight distribution and serves as a generator for the batteries (the battery size remains undisclosed). These batteries, in turn, power a set of electric motors. The concept boasts a power output of 370PS or approximately 365bhp, reminiscent of the high-performance RX-7 models. With a weight of 1,450kg, the Iconic SP has an impressive power-to-weight ratio.
Placing the engine in the middle of the vehicle design results in an exceptionally low hood, while its sleek, curvaceous silhouette sets it apart from the current Mazda lineup. It’s lower, longer, and wider than the current MX-5, hinting at a distinctive driving experience for enthusiasts.
Masahiro Moro, Mazda’s Representative Director, President, and CEO, expressed Mazda’s commitment to delivering vehicles that bring joy and become an indispensable part of people’s lives. The Iconic SP concept represents a bold step towards rekindling the spirit of the rotary engine and promoting a sustainable, carbon-neutral future.
As Mazda enthusiasts eagerly await the potential production of the Iconic SP, it remains a promising symbol of Mazda’s unwavering dedication to innovation and driving pleasure.
