POWERTRAINS ON TEST MAZDA MX-30 R-EV AC synchronous motor + rotary ICE Mazda, alongside fellow Japanese marque Toyota, is beating its own path toward electrification. The company’s ‘right sizing’ strategy applies to its ICE and BEV products alike, and when released in 2020, the pure BEV version of the MX-30 was criticized by some for its short range. With a small 30kWh pack it only manages a real-world reach of just over 160km. Mazda’s argues that this is plenty for most users’ daily needs and it is more sustainable to spec smaller packs, charging more frequently, than large packs that do not get used. A fair point but not necessarily in line with most buyers’ needs. To counter those arguments, the company has launched the MX-30 REV, equipped with a series hybrid powertrain (detailed in Rotary Returns , APTI , March 2023, p10*). The new model pairs a 125kW AC synchronous motor and 17.8kWh battery (running at 355V) with an 830cc, single-rotor Wankel engine and 50-liter fuel tank. The result is 85km range on pure EV, over 640km in hybrid mode and emissions of 21g/km on the WLTP cycle. The question is, how does this package translate to efficiency and performance in the real world? Hopping into the MX-30 for a drive out from Liverpool to North Wales, it impresses from the outset. The interior fit, finish and equipment levels are excellent and the well-thought-out dash and HMI make getting to grips with the interface straightforward. Key functions such as volume and climate control are taken care of with physical buttons (though the climate control also has a 7in touchscreen) while the infotainment is navigated using a rotary controller in the center console via clear menus that are easy to understand. The materials used across the various trim lines are pleasingly tactile and would not feel out of place in a car several classes higher. A traditional gear lever is used for drive selection; nestled next to it is a toggle for switching between powertrain modes. These give a choice of Normal, EV and Charge. The former automatically switches between pure electric and ICE assisted, depending on power demand and battery state (when charge drops below 43% the rotary will fire up to charge it). EV mode allows almost pure electric driving until the battery is depleted, though if heavy throttle is required the motor will kick in. Finally, Charge does as one would expect and forces the ICE to life almost regardless of battery charge. ON THE ROAD In practice around town and with a freshly charged battery, the ICE almost never fires (indicated by a small rotor icon illuminating on the dash) unless accelerating hard to merge at a junction. With no mechanical connection between the ICE and wheels, the driving experience is 100% EV, and acceleration is perfectly adequate, if not quite as brisk as some other EVs (the book time is 9.1 seconds to 100km/h). Notably, the top speed is limited to 140km/h. On a mix of highway and smaller, twisting mountain roads, the ICE kicks in regularly, announcing itself with an audible hum; not loud but noticeable, particularly at lower speeds. Satisfyingly, under hard acceleration, though the engine sound doesn’t rise at a linear rate with speed, it does assume a harder note as it is worked. The chassis is well composed, with eager turn-in (helped by the pleasingly thin-rimmed steering wheel) and good traction through the corners. It’s not a sporting drive and the steering is not the most communicative, but it is still enjoyable on twisty roads where the progressive throttle and brakes allow for smooth progress while the Macpherson strut front and multilink rear suspension handles bumps without any excessive jarring. Overall, the MX-30 REV makes a strong argument for Mazda’s hybrid concept, provided it is used as a PHEV should be (notably, it can also make use of DC fast-charging). The pure electric range means most day-to-day driving should be easily zero emissions, with range anxiety on longer trips eliminated . LB *Visit our website to access our archive of back issues Vital Statistics E-motors: Single Motor type: AC synchronous + rotary ICE Range: 640km (WLTP) Power output: 125kW Torque: 260Nm 24 Automotive Powertrain Technology International.com / January 2024