As the automotive industry evolves rapidly, electric cars now cater to most preferences and needs, including extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) that use combustion engines solely to charge the battery. The Mazda MX-30 R-EV is a new addition to this niche market, and after driving it for a few days, I’m excited to share how the rotary range extender has transformed the MX-30, for better or worse.
The Remarkable Type of EREVs
Genuine EREVs are a unique presence in the automotive world, using combustion engines only to charge the battery, which then powers the electric motor driving the wheels. This setup is distinct from plug-in hybrids, where the combustion engine can directly drive the wheels under certain conditions. A notable example of an EREV is the 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger, which differs from the all-electric Ram 1500 Rev by catering to a broader audience with its V6 engine and smaller battery, making it particularly advantageous for towing.
A Story of Two MX-30s: Electric versus Range Broadened
My excursion with the Mazda MX-30 started with the all-electric rendition in 2021, a test that closed with a somewhat disheartening 84-mile range in winter conditions. The MX-30 enchanted with its looks, stopper nitty-gritty inside, and driving elements; however, its restricted reach failed to impress anyone.
Fast forward to the MX-30 R-EV, and the story continues. The R-EV halves the battery capacity of its fully electric sibling to about 15 kWh usable, adding a 13.2-gallon tank for its rotary range extender. This setup ensures a significant range increase, up to 423 miles under the WLTP cycle in Europe, though real-world driving conditions revealed a more modest 280 miles of expected range.
In the engine: The Turning Reach Extender
The MX-30 R-EV’s rotary engine, an 830cc single-rotor Wankel unit, operates under the hood without ever engaging the wheels directly. Its presence is noticeable but not intrusive, adding a unique auditory backdrop to the driving experience. Depending on the selected driving mode — Normal, EV, or Charge — the engine’s operation adjusts to maintain the battery’s charge, with the vehicle striving to balance electric and combustion power seamlessly.
This mix of ignition and electric power changes the driving experience. The MX-30 R-EV holds the vibe of an EV, upheld by an expanded result of 168 pull that marginally enlivens speed increase in spite of added weight. The rotational motor’s unmistakable sound and vibration profile present an exceptional person, while the electric engine’s whoosh stays a characterizing component of speed increase.
Adjusting Advantages and Downsides
Switching to an EREV setup addresses one of the primary concerns of the all-electric MX-30: range anxiety. The rotary engine significantly extends the vehicle’s range, providing peace of mind for longer trips.
Notwithstanding, the MX-30 R-EV’s dependence on its burning motor to expand range presents contemplations around fuel utilization and refueling that are missing in unadulterated EVs. While the reach tension related with the all-electric MX-30 is eased, the R-EV’s effectiveness and natural advantages rely intensely upon ordinary charging — a way of behaving not ensured among all proprietors.
Mazda’s Bold Move: To Innovate with Tradition
Further indicating this innovative spirit, instead of simply increasing the size of the battery back pack, they chose to use a range extender instead. The questions are opened even further with this, regarding the better path to maximize EV adoption and satisfaction. The Mazda MX-30 R-EV, with this strange combination of technologies, makes for a very interesting teaser of what EREV potential can mean. It illustrates how to combine a small battery with a rotary engine, providing a vehicle that is fun to use as well as one that remains less encumbered by range issues.
For all the innovation, the MX-30 R-EV continues another sad tradition of a cramped rear seat and limited rear cargo volume. Coach doors, while lovely in concept and appearance, make rear access more of a hassle, sacrificing even more practicality to the altar of style.
An Electric Mobility Trial
The Mazda MX-30 R-EV redefines electric mobility in the modern automotive landscape. This rotary range extender allows today’s drivers to enjoy all the benefits of electric driving without the constant fear of running out of power. Looking ahead, the MX-30 R-EV presents a fascinating case of innovation versus practicality, challenging us to consider the future of electric cars and their role in our lives.
Subaru has embraced tradition by reversing the turn signals on its WRX and BRZ models for 2022–2023, signaling that the company is taking a stand against its competitors. While advanced technologies can enhance driving, they must still align with consumer expectations and desires. One lesson from the BMW-style turn signal debacle is that sometimes, in automotive design, taking a step back is the smartest move.
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