Ever heard of the Mazda MX-30? It's Mazda's MX-5-styled CUV that's currently available in a few global markets as both an electric and hybrid car.
Last we heard, the car maker was working on using a rotary engine as a range extender for the car, though now we know that the MX-30 is coming to North America, courtesy President of Mazda North American Operations Jeff Guyton:
“The battery-powered MX-30 will begin the introduction of additional electrified models, including a series plug-in hybrid with a rotary generator for MX-30, a plug-in hybrid for our new large platform, and a traditional hybrid for our new American-made crossover. While these powertrains will be optimized for their platforms, Mazda fans can expect great driving dynamics and beautiful design across all models.”
The plan, then, is to introduce the all-electric MX-30 first, and then add the hybrid models to the lineup at a later date—including a version that features that rotary range extender.
Available starting this fall in California, the all-electric MX-30 is currently rated at 107 kW (roughly 144 horsepower) and 200 lb.-ft of torque, all of which is sent through the front wheels. Mazda also says that, using DC fast charging, the 35.5 kWh battery can be charged to 80% in about 36 minutes.
A partnership with ChargePoint—an electric vehicle infrastructure company—is also in the works for future customers.
There are few specifics on when we could expect to see the other hybrid versions of the MX-30 here in the U.S., though if enough people buy the electric model, that rotary-hybrid could come sooner rather than later.
For more information about the MX-30, visit the webpage on Mazda’s website or read the full press release below:
IRVINE, Calif. (April 14, 2021) – Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today announces the introduction of the all-new Mazda MX-30, the brand’s first battery-electric vehicle, to the US market beginning in fall 2021 with California dealerships. This stylish vehicle will mark the first step in Mazda’s multi-solution electrification strategy. The MX-30 is a welcome addition to Mazda’s vehicle line up and offers the same signature driving dynamics and thoughtful design expected from Mazda, but through a new electric powertrain.
“Mazda is preparing for the fast-changing US market demands by taking a multi-solution approach to electrification,” Jeff Guyton, President of Mazda North American Operations, said. “The battery-powered MX-30 will begin the introduction of additional electrified models, including a series plug-in hybrid with a rotary generator for MX-30, a plug-in hybrid for our new large platform, and a traditional hybrid for our new American-made crossover. While these powertrains will be optimized for their platforms, Mazda fans can expect great driving dynamics and beautiful design across all models.”
“The rotary generator will mark the return of our unique rotary powertrain,” Guyton said. “This technology is being engineered for nearly silent operation and will replenish the battery rather than drive the wheels. As a result, the MX-30 will always drive like the engaging EV that it is, but with freedom to charge from the wall or on the go.”
Mazda’s all-new electrification technology uses an electric motor and a 35.5 kWh lithium-ion battery. This new powertrain along with enhancements to the Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture help the electric crossover provide great driving dynamics. The front-wheel drive electric motor will deliver an output of 107 kW (144 horsepower) and a maximum torque of 271 Nm (200 lb-ft), providing a smooth and connected feeling that helps enhance confidence for the driver.
MX-30 owners will have multiple options to stay charged, whether at home or traveling around town through access to public Level 2 and DC fast charging solutions. The 35.5 kWh battery can be charged to 80% within approximately 36 minutes using DC fast charging2. MNAO will partner with ChargePoint to offer charging solutions for MX-30 owners in the US. Additional details on this partnership will be shared closer to the vehicles arriving in dealerships.
MX-30’s contemporary design makes this electric vehicle distinctly a Mazda. The Kodo design philosophy continues to evolve with every new addition to the lineup of next-generation vehicles. Inside and out, MX-30 emphasizes a new “Human Modern” concept that combines the appeal of futuristic design with a sense of familiarity. The exterior proportions give the crossover a feeling of strength and beauty, while the minimalist style offers a sense of sophistication similar to other Mazda vehicles. Opening the new freestyle doors provides a unique view and a wide range of possibilities for experiencing the vehicle. The interior continues the minimalist design language with feelings of lightness and openness. The driver-centric approach lays out the latest technologies and controls in a way that is welcoming and helps provide a sense of confidence while driving.
Mazda prides itself on craftsmanship and blending complex, quality materials to develop an elegant interior. In the MX-30, a new floating center console and the door grips use cork, one of the most highly renewable and eco-friendly resources that also pays homage to Mazda’s origin as a cork manufacturing company more than 100 years ago.
The floating center console features an electronic shifter, a familiar multi-function commander knob, and shortcut buttons that will allow occupants to safely operate the Mazda Connect infotainment system. In front of this layout is a new seven-inch touchscreen that will display the climate control panel. The touchscreen is flanked on each side by tactile push buttons that also operate the climate control. The electric ownership experience is enhanced with Mazda Connected Services that will allow users to monitor and control the state of the MX-30 remotely through the MyMazda App. This includes locking the doors and adjusting the climate control to checking the battery status and charging process through the app.
The latest technologies also help provide peace of mind. Enhanced i-Activsense safety features help cover a wider range of safety scenarios while its high strength body helps protect the space-saving battery and most importantly the MX-30’s occupants. Details and availability of these safety features will be shared closer to the launch of this vehicle.
Kind of dead on arrival with only a 35kWh battery (for a 150 mile max range) and only 144 HP and 200 lb ft of torque. For that money, the new Bolt EUV has a 66kWh battery and will do over 250 miles, with 200 hp and 266 lb ft. And probably cost less, too. AND, while the Mazda looks good inside and out, those suicide rear half doors are still going to make it hard to get in the rear seats, especially with rear facing child seats.
The fact that it's only for CA explains why it exists.
With a 150 mile range I could see this being a fantastic second/commuter car actually. Price will matter. And I don't live in CA.
Keith Tanner said:The fact that it's only for CA explains why it exists.
This. Haven't we moved past compliance cars by now?
The Battery pack size has absolutely nothing to do with being a compliance car, at least officially.
Mazda talked about the battery pack size, and the reason they chose it, when they launched the car in 2019.
https://europe.autonews.com/blogs/why-mazda-thinks-smaller-battery-just-fine-mx-30
With my own anecdotal data.. the majority of people who I sold CX-5's to would absolutely find a place in their life for the MX-30 with range extender.. if priced right. Most of my CX-5 customers were single, or couples without children.
They liked the styling and size of the CX-5 as well as that higher SUV seating position.
That's certainly an interesting way to spin it, but I think far more poeple are shopping based on range and performance than they are on total life-cycle emissions. I mean, I get their point and they're probably not wrong. But I also think that Americans will buy electric cars due to their economics or due to how they look and feel. And I'm not sure what Mazda is promising is going to be competitive on either of those fronts. It's not as good of a deal as the Bolt, and it's not as cool as Tesla. Why buy it?
Also, is it just me or does that fast charging math say "it's got super super slow Level 3 charging speeds."
I keep waiting for one of the manufacturers to bring out an EV sporty car, something that's not a SUV or CUV or whatever. After all, Tesla's first car was that modified Lotus, so we know they can do it.
Tom Suddard said:That's certainly an interesting way to spin it, but I think far more poeple are shopping based on range and performance than they are on total life-cycle emissions. I mean, I get their point and they're probably not wrong. But I also think that Americans will buy electric cars due to their economics or due to how they look and feel. And I'm not sure what Mazda is promising is going to be competitive on either of those fronts. It's not as good of a deal as the Bolt, and it's not as cool as Tesla. Why buy it?
It's going to be very interesting to see how it does...
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