This Is Probably Mazda's Plan For An Electric Miata
A new patent filing from Mazda discovered by the AutoGuide Research Department potentially shows us Mazda's vision for an electric Miata. The patent, filed in Europe, shows an electric vehicle battery layout that prioritizes balanced weight distribution in a compact two-seater design.
The illustrations in the application are for a two-seat roadster that may or may not be a Miata. The technical focus is on optimizing weight distribution and center of gravity. While EVs benefit from a low center of gravity thanks to their skateboard platforms built around the heavy battery pack, this can also lead to them feeling heavy while cornering and induce understeer.
The patent details a decentralized battery pack running through the center of the vehicle—through a traditional transmission tunnel—paired with additional battery modules to fine-tune balance. One wedge-shaped battery stack sits between the seats, while two smaller packs are positioned on either side of the rear-mounted motor. A fourth battery is located under the front passenger’s footwell, strategically placed to counterbalance the driver's weight.
Mazda's example configuration uses a rear motor setup, but the patent also allows for a front motor layout. The intent appears to be maximizing dynamic performance by offsetting the mass of the powertrain using battery placement.
This would allow Mazda's electric two-seater to preserve the nimble handling characteristics everyone loves about the Miata. Naturally, there's no official word on whether this setup will underpin a future production car. Mazda already confirmed the next-gen Miata would be getting a larger engine and would retain its manual transmission.
Mazda's chief technical officer, Ryuichi Umeshita, recently spoke with Car & Driver about the future of the Miata. He said the MX-5's defining characteristic is being lightweight, and that whatever the car's future is, it must continue to be guided by that principle. He also said Mazda only really wants to do an electric Miata if they absolutely have to.
"If all ICE engine are banned, then we have no choice," he was quoted. "And, of course, our engineering team is studying both ways. Battery-EV Miata and ICE-engine Miata. But whatever we do, ICE-engine-based one is lighter."
Well, if Mazda has to do it, this is probably how.
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
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Wow. Cool find. Wild to think about an Electric Miata. But it could be a lot of fun and I have to think an EV convertible would be such a pleasant drive