The head of Mazda has indicated that the MX-5 Miata may potentially be offered in an electric version.

      Bradley Iger/Digital Trends / Mazda

      For a long time, the concept of an electric Mazda MX-5 Miata seemed nearly unattainable. The small roadster has always been renowned for one primary attribute: its lightweight design. Many enthusiasts believed that introducing a heavy battery would lead to a loss of the Miata's distinctive driving experience.

      However, Mazda seems to have shifted its perspective. In a conversation with the German magazine auto motor und sport, Mazda CEO Masahiro Moro revealed that the next-generation MX-5 is being developed with the potential for an all-electric variant in mind. This doesn’t imply that the classic roadster will abandon gasoline in the near future, but it does indicate Mazda’s intent for the Miata to persist in a world where internal combustion engines might not be viable.

      Preserving the Miata essence

      The main challenge isn't merely creating an electric sports car; it's developing one that maintains the Miata’s essence. Moro mentions that Mazda engineers are aiming for a curb weight between 1,000 and 1,200 kilograms (approximately 2,200 to 2,650 pounds). Achieving this goal would bring a future electric MX-5 surprisingly close to the current combustion models, a scenario many believed unrealistic just a few years prior.

      Chris Chin/Digital Trends / Chris Chin/Digital Trends

      This represents a significant evolution in Mazda's mindset. Earlier this year, the company’s executives expressed that battery-powered drivetrains could significantly alter the proportions, balance, and overall nature of lightweight sports cars, complicating the justification for a fully electric MX-5.

      Gasoline isn’t vanishing just yet

      The introduction of an electric version doesn’t necessarily signal the end of the traditional MX-5. Mazda has indicated that the upcoming roadster will also include the new 2.5-liter Skyactiv-Z engine, with hybrid technology remaining an option if it enhances efficiency without adding excessive weight or detracting from the driving enjoyment.

      Chris Chin/Digital Trends / Mazda

      This strategy provides Mazda with adaptability as emissions regulations evolve worldwide. Instead of investing heavily in a single powertrain, the company seems to be preparing for multiple avenues for the MX-5's future. Fans will need to be patient, as reports suggest a launch no sooner than 2028, prolonging the already extended lifespan of the current ND-generation Miata, which debuted in 2015. Moro also shared that Mazda is developing a future flagship model to sit above the MX-5 in its lineup. Although details are limited, he referred to it as a low-volume “hero car” designed to exhibit the brand’s engineering and philosophy rather than prioritize high sales. If Mazda can produce an electric MX-5 that retains its playful, lightweight, and engaging characteristics, it may successfully achieve one of the toughest balancing acts in the automotive industry.

      Shimul is a contributor at Digital Trends, with more than five years of experience in the tech sector.

      Mercedes-Benz unveils the 2028 GLA in two versions with advanced technology

      The 2028 GLA makes its debut in both electric and hybrid versions, featuring Gemini, ChatGPT, and a range of up to 408 miles.

      Mercedes-Benz has significantly upgraded its smallest SUV. The automaker has introduced the redesigned 2028 GLA, its entry-level compact SUV, now available as a fully electric and hybrid model. Similar to the recently overhauled CLA sedan, the GLA utilizes Mercedes' next-generation MMA platform.

      What are the updates in the 2028 GLA's design and powertrain?

      Hongqi claims its new EV technology can fully charge a battery in just eight minutes, surpassing BYD.

      It seems that almost every month, a new company emerges with battery-charging technology that exceeds expectations. Recently, BYD, the Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, amazed everyone with its “flash charging” system capable of charging its vehicle from 10% to 97% in nine minutes. Now, Chinese company Hongqi has raised that bar.

      How efficient is Hongqi's new battery?

      Everyone ridiculed Ferrari’s initial EV. Now it's a sales triumph.

      Critics had a field day with it online, but buyers proceeded regardless.

      Ferrari's first electric vehicle, the Luce, had a rocky debut. Its launch in May drew widespread derision for its design, being likened to cars priced much lower, and investors were not pleased either, causing Ferrari's Milan-listed stocks to drop over 8% following the reveal. Even former Ferrari chairman Luca Cordero di Montezemolo commented that the car didn’t merit wearing the prancing horse emblem.

      Fast forward two months, and according to a Financial Times report citing insider sources, Ferrari has covertly met its 2026 sales target for the Luce. While the company has not officially confirmed numbers, it is reported to have aimed to sell just under 500 units this year, a target it reached by July.