Electrifying the Icon: Is an Electric MX-5 on the Horizon?

Mazda might be making history with a fully electrified version of its cherished MX-5, as hinted by a recent patent application. The innovative design involves placing batteries in the "tunnel portion of the formed floor," strategically positioning cells under the rear seats and passenger side. This setup aims to balance the vehicle's weight, enhancing the driving experience even when you're cruising solo.

Innovative Design Approach

- Patent Insights: The application showcases a distinctive layout for battery storage to maintain optimal weight distribution.
- Driving Dynamics: Mazda focuses on reducing the yaw moment of inertia, ensuring that the electric version retains the responsive handling of its internal combustion engine counterpart.

Flexible Battery Arrangement

- Adaptable Solutions: Multiple battery units can be installed throughout the vehicle, allowing capacity adjustments as needed.
- Comfort Considerations: The design includes a manually adjustable sliding mechanism to accommodate taller drivers, ensuring both comfort and safety with cushioned battery packs.

Drive Configuration & Partnership

- Versatile Options: The patent suggests potential configurations for both front- and rear-wheel-drive.
- Collaborative Efforts: While Mazda continues its collaboration with Subaru and Toyota on combustion engines, there's a growing focus on electric solutions, possibly hinting at a rotary-based range extender.

Conclusion

Mazda's potential leap into electric sports roadsters with an MX-5 variant signals a fusion of tradition and innovation. As the EV landscape evolves, the classic roadster DNA could turn electric, promising thrilling future drives.

In summary, Mazda’s EV patent unveils the potential for an electric MX-5, balancing battery placement to maintain the iconic driving dynamics. Could this be the sporty, sustainable future we've been anticipating?