One of the headline acts at last year’s Japan Mobility Show, the design of Mazda’s head-turning Iconic SP concept sports car has been registered with the Japan Patent Office, complete with retractable ‘pop-up’ headlights and twin-rotor rotary EV power.
As reported by BestCarWeb, the compact, uber-cool two-seater was put on display in Tokyo to gauge public reaction. And the response was obviously positive with the design now formally patented with commercialisation the likely next step.
Measuring just under 4.2 metres end-to-end, the SP is 265mm longer than the current MX-5 but gives away 105mm to the final FD iteration of the RX-7 which finished production in 2002.
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Yes, the FD was followed by the bigger RX-8, but ever since the ultra-pure RX-7 departed the scene Mazda rotary devotees have been hoping for a re-birth.
Weighing in at 1450kg and powered by a compact rotary EV powertrain, the SP may be a hybrid with a pair of electric motors driving the rear wheels, but with 272kW on tap and the signature note of a twin-rotor Wankel engine (acting as a generator) in the background the likelihood of this sleek machine rolling down the production line will surely excite expectant fans.
One of the SP’s most surprising elements is its slimline retractable headlights, a design feature seemingly consigned to automotive history courtesy of contemporary aero and safety considerations.
As well as the distinctively sinister headlights, other details like tiny window runner-mounted exterior mirrors have also been retained within the car’s overall ‘Coke bottle’ styling treatment.
Hindsight is always 20/20, but it’s worth recalling Mazda’s President and CEO Masahiro Moro’s comments at the Iconic SP’s 2023 unveiling.
“Mazda will always deliver vehicles that remind people that cars are pure joy and an indispensable part of their lives.
“As a car-loving company that mass-produces the inspiring mobility experience, we are committed to shaping the future with our partners sharing the same goal, as well as our fans, where everyone can proudly say, 'we love cars.'
“With such a strong will, Mazda is committed to enrich life-in-motion for those we serve,” he said.
Stay tuned for more news as what appears to be the SP’s date with volume production draws closer.
