Mazda Files Patent for Rotary-Powered Sportscar with PHEV and AWD

It has been ages since we saw Mazda launching a whole-new sports car model. Currently, the MX-5 Miata stands as the sole sportscar offering by the Japanese marque, with the fourth-gen ND model making its global debut almost a decade ago.

Main patent image of the mysterious rotary-PHEV model filed by Mazda

However, things might change sooner or later, as Mazda reportedly has just filed a new patent application. Submitted to the US Patent and Trademark Office back in 2021, this newly-published patent showcases a whole new sportscar model, featuring a rotary engine mounted at the front.

A preliminary report from The Drive suggests that this rotary engine is part of a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) setup, which comprises of three electric motors – two 23 HP-rated induction motors at the front axle, and a single 36 HP-rated permanent magnet synchronous motor for the rear wheels. This, in turn, gives this allegedly new Mazda sportscar a three-motor all-wheel drive layout, just like many other PHEV sportscars out there such as the Ferrari 296 GTB and the newly-launched McLaren 750S.

As for the hybrid battery pack, the patent indicates that Mazda is using four 48-volt modules housed in a single, compact package. This setup can work as an individual 48-volt battery at lower system load, but when the needs arise, the battery electronic system reconfigures the pack to work as two serial 96-volt batteries.

But more importantly, this single compact battery package not only saves weight, but also takes less space compared to the conventional battery packaging layout – both essential in keeping the sportscar as light as possible.

Fourth-Gen (ND) Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

Lightweight sportscars have been Mazda’s bread and butter for aeons, with this seemingly comprehensive yet shrouded in mystery patent filing perhaps being the latest one. At this point, nothing much can be said about whether this will be an entirely new production model, or perhaps something else. 

Mazda Vision Study Model concept previewed earlier this year. Could this be the new rotary-PHEV sports car as seen on the patent?

We’ve previously reported that Mazda is still planning to keep the MX-5 alive for a next-gen redux, in spite of the marque’s recent affinity towards launching many new SUV models. Apart from that, Mazda has also teased a new concept model to go with its EV adoption re-strategizing, showcasing a compact sportscar model with futuristic-yet-vague design, possibly harnessing an electrified powertrain.

So folks, what are your thoughts on this latest patent filed by Mazda? Is Mazda going to launch a new sportscar model, even in the midst of impending electromobility? Would you be keen to see the screaming rotary sportscar alive for one more round, now with partial electrification to keep it slightly ‘clean’? As always, hit the comments below with your thoughts…