So What’s Next for the Future Mazda3 Sedan?

It seems like Mazda has some ground to make up in the electric vehicle game. When you compare them to companies like Tesla, Ford, Hyundai, and Toyota, they have a lot of catching up to do. While they may not have the resources to move as quickly as their competitors, Mazda has released their first BEV – the 2022 Mazda MX-30. Unfortunately, the car’s 100-mile range leaves a lot to be desired. However, it’s possible that things will improve with the next-generation Mazda 3. Recently released patents suggest that Mazda may be making some big strides towards an exciting electric future.

It’s great to see Mazda is making strides towards an exciting electric future. Despite being behind some of its competitors in the EV space, Mazda is not standing still. The upcoming Mazda CX-90, which is the automaker’s first PHEV, is set to be released soon with a reveal scheduled for January 2023. Furthermore, Mazda has announced its plans to have 40 percent of all its vehicle sales be BEVs by 2030. Recent patent applications discovered by The Drive suggest that Mazda is exploring new approaches to EV design, including its take on the “skateboard” style chassis commonly used by EVs.

Mazda is exploring new approaches to EV design, including its take on the “skateboard” style chassis commonly used by EVs. Although the patent describes a typical compact sedan chassis, it’s exciting to hear that this is meant to be the underpinnings for a future BEV. The “skateboard” platform layout showcases a remarkably thin battery pack compared to vehicles currently on the market that could indicate next-gen battery technology, like solid-state batteries. This could be a game-changer for the EV industry, and I look forward to seeing what Mazda has in store for its electric future.

It seems that the BEV will have a single electric motor for propulsion in the front, according to the illustrations. However, the description notes that the motor can be placed in different layouts, leaving the possibility open for a rear-wheel or all-wheel-drive version of the vehicle. It will be exciting to see what Mazda has in store for their electric future, especially with their exploration of new approaches to EV design.

Mazda has always been known for pushing the boundaries of automotive design, and I have no doubt that their foray into electric vehicles will be just as innovative. It’s exciting to think about the possibilities of a low-cost, high-performance EV that could compete with some of the top players in the market. Only time will tell what Mazda has in store for us, but I’m definitely looking forward to seeing what they come up with.

Photo Source: Mazda USA