The Mazda Iconic SP Is A Hybrid Rotary-Powered Sports Car Concept

The Mazda Iconic SP concept car made its debut today at Japan Mobility Show, and not only is this thing drop-dead gorgeous, but it’s also sporting a rotary engine.. sort of.

According to Mazda, the Iconic SP is a new type of compact sports car concept, designed to adopt to the new era and respond to the emotions of customers who “love cars” and “desire a car that simply embodies the joy of driving”. This powertrain features Mazda’s unique two-rotor rotary EV system, which remains compact and offers a high degree of layout flexibility, enabling the concept model to have a low center of gravity to enhance driving performance.

Batteries are charged by recyclable energy source and the two-rotor rotary engine, used for power generation, is powered by carbon-neutral fuel. The vibrant red color of Viola Red, is a concept color created by overlaying Mazda’s corporate philosophy of “enrich life-in-motion for those we serve” based on Mazda’s desire to “cherish the color red.”

“Mazda will always deliver vehicles that remind that cars are pure joy and an indispensable part of (our) lives. As a car-loving company that mass-produces the inspiring mobility experience, we are committed to shaping the future with our partners sharing the same goal, as well as our fans, where everyone can proudly say, ‘we love cars.’ With such a strong will, Mazda is committed to enrich life-in-motion for those we serve,” said Masahiro Moro, Mazda Representative Director, President and CEO.

Summary of the Mazda Iconic SP

• In creating the “framework” that forms the basis of the modeling, Mazda aimed to achieve proportions with a low center of gravity that would give the impression of excellent driving performance. The concept of mounting the lightweight and compact rotary engine in the center of the car has resulted in a low hood.
• The two-rotor rotary EV system, which utilizes a highly scalable rotary engine that can burn various fuels such as hydrogen, generates electricity with carbon-neutral fuel. In addition, when the battery is charged with electricity derived from renewable energy, it is possible to drive in a virtually carbon-neutral state.
• The high output generated by the two-rotor rotary EV system, the proportions of the lower center of gravity, and the weight distribution of around 50:50 achieve excellent driving performance. In addition, although it is a sports car, it can supply power when enjoying outdoor leisure and in the time of a disaster.
• The exterior body color “VIOLA RED” was created based on Mazda’s desire to “cherish the color red” and in conjunction with Mazda’s corporate philosophy of ” enriching life-in-motion for those we serve.” We focused on making a vivid color, while creating a sense of shade that accentuates the shape of the car.

The concept measures in at 164.6 inches long, 72.8 inches wide, and 45.3 inches tall, with a nearly 102-inch wheelbase. This makes it about 10 inches longer than a Miata, four inches wider, three inches shorter, and with an 11-inch lengthier wheelbase. At 3,197 pounds, it’s about 850 pounds heavier than a Miata.

But with 365 horsepower on tap, a low center of gravity, and a 50:50 weight distribution, the Mazda Iconic SP should be a riot to drive if it comes to fruition. Here’s hoping!