Mazda Considers Synthetic Fuel for Next-Gen Miata Amid Emissions Challenges
Mazda's plans for the next Miata, the NE, face delays as the design head states it will take several more years to arrive. The company is exploring powertrain options, with a focus on synthetic fuel as a potential solution to meet emissions regulations without compromising the car's lightweight design. Current models in Europe are limited to a 1.5-liter engine due to compliance issues. The R&D team is working on technical improvements for existing engines while considering mild hybrid solutions if synthetic fuel infrastructure does not develop.
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Mazda is delaying the launch of the next-generation Miata, the NE, which is expected to take several more years to arrive. The company is uncertain about the powertrain, considering options that include electric components and synthetic fuel to meet emissions standards.
The European R&D lead mentioned that synthetic fuel could allow the use of existing combustion engines without significant redesign, although infrastructure for such fuel is lacking. Currently, only a 1.5-liter engine is available in Europe due to previous regulatory issues. Engineers are revising the current engines to enhance compliance, while Mazda remains focused on maintaining the Miata's lightweight character and manual transmission in future models.
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