by Mazda has confirmed that it will adhere to the philosophy of lightness that made the current model so iconic and will equip it with a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine. However, a recent patent application suggests that the manufacturer is already contemplating how to create an electric sports car in the future, possibly under the MX-5 brand.
The application was filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office in October of last year and published in April. It contains images of a small two-door sports car, very similar to the current MX-5, but with an electric powertrain designed to preserve the model’s legendary handling.
Most modern electric vehicles use “skateboard” platforms, where a large battery pack is located under the floor. This is good for sedans or SUVs, but not ideal for a sports car, especially if maintaining a low driving position is important. Mazda proposes placing the battery cells in a large compartment in place of the traditional transmission tunnel.
The patent states that this placement will allow the center of gravity to be concentrated closer to the middle of the car, reducing the moment of inertia during turning. Additional elements can be placed behind the seats, and a small unit can be placed in front of the passenger seat. A similar approach is used in other models, although they usually have a large battery compartment directly behind the seats.
The placement of the motor in this potential electric sports car from Mazda is no less interesting. Instead of placing it between the rear wheels, the motor will also be located in the central tunnel, transmitting power through a differential to the rear axle. This will concentrate the main mass in the central part of the car.
As always, the fact that a patent has been filed does not guarantee that this system will be implemented in series production, especially in the near future. However, if the MX-5 ever becomes an electric car, it’s good to know that it will retain its sporty handling and driver-oriented character.
