Mazda has filed a patent for an electric vehicle design that closely resembles the iconic Miata sports car. The patent, titled ‘Electric Automobile,’ was filed in October 2024 and published in April. It outlines an innovative approach to battery and motor placement aimed at maintaining ideal weight distribution in an electric vehicle.
Key Design Elements
The proposed design deviates from the typical ‘skateboard’ platform used in many electric vehicles, where a large battery pack spans the entire floor. Instead, Mazda’s design concentrates on placing multiple battery cells in the center of the vehicle, where a traditional transmission tunnel and driveshaft would be located. This approach aims to lower the vehicle’s center of gravity and reduce the yaw moment of inertia, potentially enhancing handling characteristics.
Centralized Battery and Motor Placement
The patent describes installing battery cells in the tunnel portion of the vehicle, which helps to centralize the mass. Additionally, a single electric motor is mounted within this tunnel, connecting to a rear differential via a short driveshaft. This configuration is designed to further reduce inertia by positioning the motor closer to the vehicle’s center in the longitudinal direction.
Additional Battery Placement Strategies
The design also allows for supplementary battery packs to be placed strategically around the vehicle. Smaller battery packs are shown mounted behind each seat, and another is positioned ahead of the passenger seat to counterbalance the driver’s weight. This thoughtful distribution of mass demonstrates Mazda’s commitment to achieving optimal weight distribution in their potential electric Miata.
Implications for Future Miata Models
While Mazda has confirmed that the next-generation Miata will be gas-powered, this patent filing suggests the company is actively exploring electric vehicle technology for future models. The challenge lies in maintaining the Miata’s renowned handling and lightweight characteristics in an electric version. Mazda has previously stated that they are hesitant to electrify the Miata until they can address weight concerns associated with battery technology.
Potential Solutions and Timeline
The design concepts presented in this patent could potentially address some of the weight distribution challenges associated with electrifying the Miata. However, it’s likely years before such technology could be implemented in a production model. As battery technology continues to evolve, Mazda may have more options for creating an electric Miata that preserves the car’s signature agility and driving dynamics.
For now, this patent remains a theoretical exercise, offering a glimpse into Mazda’s thinking about electric vehicle design. As the automotive industry continues its transition towards electrification, it will be interesting to see how manufacturers like Mazda balance performance, weight, and handling in their iconic models.
