Mazda’s dedication to driving pleasure in the electric age has earned them another accolade. The Mazda ICONIC SP was crowned EV Concept of the Year at the 2024 Top Gear Electric Awards. This compact sports car blends cutting-edge electric vehicle technology with a nod to Mazda’s rich history, making it a standout among this year’s concepts.

What Makes the ICONIC SP Special?

Revealed at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, the Iconic SP showcases a bold approach to electrification. At its heart lies a dual rotary engine paired with an EV powertrain – a fusion that debuted in production form with the Mazda MX-30 R-EV, last year’s Top Gear Innovation Award winner.

Mazda’s engineers placed the rotary power generator close to the car’s centre, achieving the ICONIC SP’s sleek proportions and low centre of gravity. These design choices reflect a strong focus on driving dynamics, ensuring the concept stays true to Mazda’s philosophy of building cars that are as enjoyable to drive as they are innovative.

A Design That Captures the Past and Future

The Iconic SP embodies Mazda’s vision for the future while honouring its legacy. Associate Editor of Top Gear, Tom Ford, praised the car for its balance of style and substance, stating, “It’s a pretty and evolutionary take on Mazda’s future, with a nod to its past. Among a slew of new electric car concepts, it’s the one we want to see make production.”

Mazda President and CEO, Masahiro Moro, echoed this sentiment, describing the Iconic SP as a symbol of the brand’s commitment to keeping the joy of driving alive in the electric age. He emphasised that Mazda will continue delivering vehicles that inspire passion and bring people joy.

Pioneering Sustainable Performance

Beyond its striking looks, the Iconic SP represents innovation in sustainable motoring. Its dual-rotor rotary EV system is not only compact but also highly versatile. Capable of using various fuels, including hydrogen, it highlights Mazda’s efforts to reduce environmental impact. When charged using renewable energy, the Iconic SP can deliver virtually carbon-neutral driving without compromising performance.

This scalable technology positions the car as an ideal platform for sports car enthusiasts who value sustainability without sacrificing fun behind the wheel.

Recognition from Industry Experts

Winning the EV Concept of the Year award underscores Mazda’s forward-thinking approach. Jeremy Thomson, Managing Director of Mazda UK, expressed his pride in the recognition, stating, “It’s great to see the experts at Top Gear appreciating our future vision for beautiful, fun-to-drive cars.”

This achievement continues Mazda’s streak of success, following the MX-30 R-EV’s win in 2023. It also reflects the industry’s growing enthusiasm for concepts that combine innovation, sustainability, and driving pleasure.

Will the Iconic SP hit the roads?

While the Iconic SP remains a concept for now, its reception hints at its potential to become a production reality. Its blend of advanced technology, stunning design, and commitment to the driver’s experience make it a car that enthusiasts and industry leaders alike are eager to see on the roads.

What Do You Think?

Could the Mazda Iconic SP redefine the future of electric sports cars? Do you think Mazda’s dual-rotor EV system could set a new standard in sustainability? Share your thoughts in the comments below – we’d love to hear your take.

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