Mazda: Electric car with its own power plant

Mazda obviously felt a certain amount of pressure when the MX-30 failed in many markets as a battery-operated electric car with a range of only 200 kilometers. At least the design shouldn't have been the problem. The stylish crossover with its rear doors opening in the direction of travel was just the thing for car customers with special tastes.

Mazda is therefore now launching a version with a range extender that can supply itself with energy thanks to its own on-board power generator, giving it a range of more than 500 kilometers. The miniature power station is driven by a Wankel engine with a chamber volume of 0.83 liters and a maximum output of 75 hp. This always starts when the 17.8 kWh battery falls below a charge level defined by the driver, but at least 20 percent.

Driving without a forced break

The significantly more powerful electric motor is responsible for the drive. It transmits its output of 125 kW (170 hp) and its peak torque of 260 Nm to the front wheels. The promised 85-kilometer range shrinks to 50 kilometers in winter. However, this is not a problem, as the Wankel engine starts before the battery runs out of juice and ensures that there is no need to take a break to recharge.

There are 50 liters of petrol in the tank, enough energy for a total of 500 kilometers. The interaction between the combustion engine and electric motor works well, but not with the expected quietness. It is more than just a sonorous purring with which the Wankel engine reports for work.

To 100 km/h in 9.1 seconds

Weighing in at 1780 kilograms, the car drives with ease and great elasticity. The sprinting ability of 9.1 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h allows carefree acceleration, although the top speed is limited to 140 km/h for reasons of energy efficiency. The level of recuperation can be adjusted in stages, but even the maximum setting does not allow the driver to do without the brake pedal.

Even with a relaxed driving style, the drive requires around 20 kWh for 100 kilometers. As the battery capacity draws to a close, the consumption of the on-board power generation settles at 7.2 liters per 100 kilometers. Nevertheless, the small battery can be charged quickly when stationary. This takes one and a half hours on an 11 kW wallbox, and it should be 80 percent full again after 25 minutes on a DC charging station with at least 36 kW.

Lots of comfort and equipment

The 4.4-metre-long vehicle is richly equipped. In addition to the usual safety assistants, gimmicks such as a head-up display, glass sunroof, multi-colored paintwork and front headrests with embossed logo are included. The Mazda MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV 170 is available in five trim levels with prices starting at 42,400 Swiss francs.

Source: auto-medienportal.net
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