Mazda unveiled the Iconic SP concept at the Japan Mobility Show in 2023. The Iconic SP was a sports coupe, a spiritual successor to the iconic Mazda RX-7. It was a hybrid EV with a rotary-powered range extender. It packed 365 horsepower and weighed just 3,200 pounds, incredibly light compared to a traditional EV.
Mazda said it designed the Iconic SP with “real intent to turn it into a production model.” And steady development has reportedly been underway. But it now seems like there’s a strong chance that Mazda bails on bringing a production Iconic SP to market.
A recent report from Autocar states the production Iconic SP project may be on the chopping block. Since Mazda debuted the Iconic SP, consumer and political sentiment have turned away from EVs. Tariffs are stressing profit margins. And according to the report, building the Iconic SP is “not a priority” at a time when Mazda needs to focus on priorities.
Mazda is building its own EV platform. The first vehicle built on it will launch in 2027. That platform development is happening at a time when Mazda has cut its planned EV investment by a third, around $3.2 billion.
Mazda’s chief technology officer, Ryuichi Umeshita, confirmed that the production car was feasible but noted that funding would be the issue. “Let me answer personally: that is my dream car. I want to make it real,” Ryuichi told Autocar. “Technology-wise, I believe it’s possible. The only outstanding issue is financial.”
A production Iconic SP would be significant and interesting. It could herald a new generation of low or zero-emission sports cars. But the main problem with sports cars right now is that they just aren’t selling. Traditional models are struggling; Ford Mustang sales have been well off historical norms. And Dodge’s electric Charger Daytona launch proved an absolute disaster. So, if Mazda were looking to cut projects, a cutting-edge sports car with uncertain returns would likely be near the top of the list.
Mazda using a rotary engine for a range-extended EV is a nostalgia play, but it’s not just a nostalgia play. If deployed correctly, a rotary engine could make a lot of sense as a range extender. Mazda has already deployed a rotary range extender in the MX-30.
The rotary engine had two primary benefits: an incredibly high power-to-weight ratio and smooth operation with few moving parts. The motor would be super lightweight and easy to package, which is great for an EV. And the presence of the range extender, obviously, allows the manufacturer to use a smaller and lighter battery. And the smooth operation of the rotary would be relatively quiet to operate.
Of course, the downsides of rotary engines, which led Mazda to discontinue them in 2012, would still be present. They aren’t very fuel-efficient, they burn oil along with gasoline, and there are some reliability issues.
While the Iconic SP might be on the chopping block, this may not be the end for some kind of rotary-equipped Mazda sports car. The Japanese brand revealed the Vision X-Coupe concept recently at the Japan Mobility Show, but not as an EV. It’s a plug-in hybrid with a turbocharged two-rotor and an electric motor, and the company was oddly specific about powertrain details.
It’s technically a four-door car, so it’s larger than the Iconic SP. But its PHEV powertrain is a better fit for current automotive trends, so it’s reasonable to think it stands a better chance of reaching production.
Source: Autocar
We want to hear from you! Share your opinions in the thread below and remember to keep it respectful.
Your comment has not been saved
This thread is open for discussion.
Be the first to post your thoughts.
