alwepo, Rotary-Electric Powertrain – The Mazda Iconic SP Concept has taken the automotive world by storm at the Japan Mobility Show, thanks to its eye-catching design and cutting-edge powertrain technology. This exciting vehicle draws inspiration from the classic MX-5 Miata and the iconic third-generation RX-7, promising a thrilling driving experience.
At the heart of the Iconic SP lies a mid-mounted two-rotor engine, but it doesn’t directly drive the wheels. Instead, it employs a series hybrid setup, much like the MX-30 R-EV, where the powerplant charges the batteries. In this article, team alwepo will delve into how this Rotary-Electric Powertrain works, uncovering its unique features and advantages.
The Rotary-Electric Powertrain: A Series Hybrid System
The Rotary-Electric Powertrain in the Mazda Iconic SP Concept represents an exciting and forward-thinking approach to vehicle propulsion. This system is notably a series hybrid, and it shares commonalities with the powertrain setup found in the MX-30 R-EV, underlining Mazda’s dedication to pioneering innovations in the automotive industry. Though the specifics of the shared components between these two vehicles are not publicly disclosed, it is evident that they both employ a series hybrid architecture. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what this means:
-
Series Hybrid System Overview
A series hybrid powertrain is a type of hybrid system in which the internal combustion engine (ICE) functions primarily as a generator. Unlike a parallel hybrid, where the ICE directly drives the wheels, in a series hybrid, the ICE’s sole purpose is to generate electricity. This electricity is then used to charge a battery pack, which, in turn, powers an electric motor that drives the vehicle’s wheels. Essentially, it’s a two-step process: ICE generates electricity, which powers an electric motor.
-
Similarity with the MX-30 R-EV
The Iconic SP Concept shares a kinship with the MX-30 R-EV in terms of its powertrain design. The MX-30 R-EV is known for its compact, single-rotor engine, which is primarily used as a generator. This engine is responsible for producing electricity that charges a lithium-ion battery pack. The electricity stored in the battery is then used to propel the vehicle through an electric motor, which drives the wheels.
-
Common Design Philosophy
Mazda’s commitment to innovation and sustainability is underlined by this shared design philosophy. While the exact components and technologies shared between the Iconic SP and MX-30 R-EV are not divulged, the fact that both vehicles follow the series hybrid approach emphasizes Mazda’s dedication to finding efficient and eco-friendly solutions to power its vehicles.
-
Jake Stumph’s Statement
Mazda’s spokesperson, Jake Stumph, plays a vital role in elucidating the shared design philosophy of these vehicles. His statement about the vehicles sharing a powertrain setup is a confirmation of Mazda’s strategic direction in adopting series hybrid technology. Stumph’s statement serves to highlight the brand’s commitment to this innovative approach and its potential benefits.
MX-30 R-EV: A Benchmark for Series Hybrids
To gain a better understanding of the Iconic SP’s powertrain, it’s essential to examine the MX-30 R-EV, the vehicle that paved the way for Mazda’s foray into series hybrid technology. This compact marvel features an 830-cc, single-rotor engine, which, interestingly, doesn’t directly drive the wheels. Instead, it acts as a compact generator, producing electricity to replenish the 17.8-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack. The ICE alone generates 74 horsepower and 85 pound-feet of torque.
Where the MX-30 EV falls short in terms of range, limited to approximately 100 miles on electric power, the rotary engine in the R-EV comes to the rescue. With a 13.2-gallon fuel tank, it extends the driving distance to an impressive 372 miles. The vehicle can cover roughly 53 miles on pure electric power before the ICE kicks in to generate power. Mazda positioned the series hybrid as the perfect marriage of electric vehicle advantages with the extended range capabilities of a combustion engine.
The Unique Two-Rotor Engine in the Iconic SP Concept
Mazda’s Iconic SP Concept has caught the automotive world’s attention with its innovative approach to power generation, particularly in its unique two-rotor engine. This stands in contrast to the smaller rotary engine used in the MX-30 R-EV, and it brings remarkable flexibility to the series hybrid formula.
- Diverging from the MX-30 R-EV: The Iconic SP Concept distinguishes itself from its predecessor, the MX-30 R-EV, by employing a two-rotor engine. This departure from the single-rotor engine in the MX-30 R-EV signifies Mazda’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of rotary power.
- Fuel Flexibility: What makes this two-rotor engine particularly intriguing is its adaptability to a range of fuels, including hydrogen. This versatility sets it apart from conventional powertrains that are often limited to one fuel source. The Iconic SP Concept’s engine has been tested on hydrogen, demonstrating its capability to run on alternative and potentially cleaner fuels.
- Testing and Confirmation: Mazda’s engineering team in Japan has rigorously tested the two-rotor engine, confirming its performance and adaptability across different fuel types. These tests indicate that the engine is not merely a concept but a functional and versatile component of the vehicle’s powertrain.
Iconic SP’s Power Output and Recharge Options
The Iconic SP Concept not only brings a unique two-rotor engine to the table but also showcases impressive power output and recharge options, further solidifying its position as a cutting-edge concept vehicle.
- Impressive Power Output: While Mazda has not disclosed detailed specifications regarding the electric motor layout or battery capacity in the Iconic SP Concept, the vehicle boasts a total power output of 365 horsepower. This figure represents a substantial upgrade when compared to previous rotary-powered models like the third-generation RX-7 and RX-8. It highlights Mazda’s commitment to delivering high-performance vehicles.
- Versatile Recharge Options: One noteworthy aspect of the Iconic SP Concept is its versatility in recharging. Although specific details about the charging system remain undisclosed, the concept allows for traditional plug-in recharging. This means that owners can recharge the vehicle through conventional charging infrastructure, further enhancing its practicality.
Vehicle-to-Load Power Generation: Practical Innovation
Another standout feature of the Iconic SP’s powertrain is its support for vehicle-to-load power generation, a feature that sets it apart from many other vehicles on the market.
Mobile Power Source: The Iconic SP Concept’s innovative powertrain allows the vehicle to serve as a mobile power source. This feature is particularly practical, as it enables the driver to use the vehicle’s stored energy for various purposes. For instance, you can imagine taking the Iconic SP to a remote location and plugging in tools, lights, or even a barbecue grille to stay entertained between sessions. This practical utility is a testament to Mazda’s commitment to creating vehicles that offer more than just transportation.
The Future of Rotary Power
Enthusiasts and fans of Mazda’s rotary engines have long awaited their return, and the Iconic SP Concept hints at the potential resurgence of this iconic powerplant.
Concept with Promise: While the Iconic SP Concept is, at the moment, just that—a concept, it holds promise for the future of rotary power. By integrating the two-rotor engine as a range extender in a series hybrid setup, Mazda may be on the cusp of breathing new life into the rotary engine, a beloved and unique component of automotive history.
Conclusion
The Rotary-Electric Powertrain in Mazda’s Iconic SP Concept represents a significant leap in automotive innovation. With its two-rotor engine, adaptability to various fuels, and support for vehicle-to-load power generation, this concept vehicle promises a thrilling driving experience and practical utility.
While the Iconic SP is currently a concept, it opens the door to exciting possibilities for the future of rotary power in the automotive world. Mazda continues to push the boundaries of technology and design, and we can only anticipate what the future holds for this iconic brand.
