Mazda just teased a sleek four-door coupe concept for the upcoming Tokyo motor show that could run on renewable fuels rather than batteries.
The preview image shows steeply raked roofline, frameless windows, and large panoramic glass roof extending toward the rear, with cutouts around the deck suggesting an active spoiler.
The swoopy shape brings to mind the 2017 Vision Coupe concept, appearing larger than the Iconic SP coupe that measured 164.6 inches long.
The side windows look quite small relative to the body with no visible door handles, while tiny cameras replace traditional side mirrors for a smoother profile.
Mazda says the concept demonstrates how it aims to build sustainable driver’s cars toward 2035 with tagline “the joy of driving fuels a sustainable tomorrow.”
Alongside the concept, the brand will show a new CO2 capture system claimed to cut emissions the more a car is driven, plus carbon-neutral fuel produced using algae.
The company has become one of the industry’s largest proponents of renewable fuels as alternative to battery electrification, owing to its legacy building lightweight sports cars like the MX-5.
The existing battery technology makes it difficult to convert these models to battery electric power without adding substantial weight..
Mazda reinstated its rotary engine team in early 2024 with 36 engineers tasked with developing attractive cars that excite customers.
The Vision concept appears to match the requirements if the production model stays true to its current design.
The vehicle’s power distribution system remains uncertain because Mazda evaluates both direct wheel power delivery and battery charging through a generator function for the Iconic SP model.
Last year, Mazda partnered with Toyota and Subaru in engine development project described by Toyota CEO Koji Sato as friendly competition, aimed at further optimizing combustion power for carbon neutral fuels.
If the concept does have engine, it might preview Mazda’s upcoming Skyactiv Z powertrain set to debut in production cars by 2027.
Mazda president and CEO Masahiro Moro said the company will continue offering customers exciting cars by honing internal combustion engines for the electrification era and expanding multi-pathway possibilities for achieving carbon neutrality.
The brand presented new development of its signature rotary engine designed to fit into same space as electric motor, allowing transplant into existing battery electric models.
Mazda also races MX-5 and 3 hatchback powered by carbon-neutral fuels in Japan’s Super Taikyu series.
All details will be revealed on October 29 during the first press day of the Japan Mobility Show. The new CX-5 will also be there for public debut.
The sleek silhouette doesn’t suggest a crossover but rather slinky fastback similar to Mercedes CLS or Audi A7 Sportback.
