Photo: Mazda
Mazda, as I’m sure you’re aware, continues to advocate for naturally aspirated engines and fun-to-drive cars. Think MX-5 Miata, the model that embodies the Mazda ethos. But in the age of hybrids and electric vehicles, can the Japanese carmaker remain detached in the face of an ever-changing automotive industry?
The answer to that question is no. Since the company signed a technical and technological partnership with Toyota in 2015, it became crystal clear that Mazda is interested in breaking ground in the hybrid and pure electric realms. For what it’s worth, Mazda took a first step in this regard with the Axela Hybrid. This model combines the 2.0-liter SkyActiv-G engine with the third-generation Toyota Prius’ powertrain, electric motor and battery included.
A half-baked hybrid model only available in Japan isn’t enough, though. Mazda knows this too. Therefore, more eco-friendly cars are in the offing. Speaking to CarAdvice at the 2016 L.A. Auto Show, head of development Kiyoshi Fujiwara said: “Of course we need EVs.” Fujiwara added that the focus would remain on internal combustion, but a pure electric vehicle will definitely be introduced in various parts of the world “in 2019” at the earliest.
What happens next, only Mazda knows for sure. Fujiwara let it slip that the research & development for the upcoming EV has just started. The Mazda official also mentioned that Toyota could join the project if Toyota can make a case for co-developing an electric vehicle. Financially speaking, I’m pretty sure that two is better than one as far as development costs are concerned.
Regarding the shape, size or powertrain of the Mazda EV, your guess is as good as mine. Depending on the input from the engineers that work on the project, Mazda could develop an all-new vehicle architecture or adapt an existing platform for electrification. At the same time, a range-extender electric vehicle complemented by a rotary engine is another possibility.
A half-baked hybrid model only available in Japan isn’t enough, though. Mazda knows this too. Therefore, more eco-friendly cars are in the offing. Speaking to CarAdvice at the 2016 L.A. Auto Show, head of development Kiyoshi Fujiwara said: “Of course we need EVs.” Fujiwara added that the focus would remain on internal combustion, but a pure electric vehicle will definitely be introduced in various parts of the world “in 2019” at the earliest.
What happens next, only Mazda knows for sure. Fujiwara let it slip that the research & development for the upcoming EV has just started. The Mazda official also mentioned that Toyota could join the project if Toyota can make a case for co-developing an electric vehicle. Financially speaking, I’m pretty sure that two is better than one as far as development costs are concerned.
Regarding the shape, size or powertrain of the Mazda EV, your guess is as good as mine. Depending on the input from the engineers that work on the project, Mazda could develop an all-new vehicle architecture or adapt an existing platform for electrification. At the same time, a range-extender electric vehicle complemented by a rotary engine is another possibility.
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