Mazda has given its clearest indication yet that the MX-5 Miata could eventually become an electric sports car. CEO Masahiro Moro said its successor “must also be ready for a scenario without a combustion engine” during an interview with Auto Motor und Sport.
His comments stop short of confirming a fully electric version, but they suggest Mazda is designing the next MX-5 with different powertrains in mind. A petrol model is still expected, potentially using the company’s new 2.5-litre Skyactiv-Z engine.
Keeping the roadster light remains one of Mazda’s biggest concerns as it prepares for electrification. Moro said engineers are aiming for a weight of just under 1,000kg to 1,200kg without relying on expensive materials such as carbon fibre.
That would put a future electric model surprisingly close to the weight of the current MX-5. Batteries normally add considerable bulk, making Mazda’s target particularly ambitious for a small and relatively affordable sports car.
Light weight has always been central to the MX-5’s character, helping it deliver responsive handling without needing huge amounts of power. Mazda has repeatedly said that this quality cannot be lost, regardless of what eventually powers the car.
Electrification could still take several forms, including hybrid assistance before the model makes the complete move to battery power. Mazda has not confirmed which options will be offered or when an electric MX-5 might reach production.
Any future version would also need to preserve the roadster’s balanced handling and close connection with the driver. Those qualities may be harder to maintain once batteries and electric motors are added, especially if Mazda also wants to keep the car affordable.
For now, the next MX-5 is unlikely to abandon gasoline entirely. Moro’s comments show that Mazda is already preparing for a time when its best-known sports car may need to continue without a combustion engine.