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A Mazda MX-5 Miata powered by synthetic fuel to race in Super Taikyu

Mazda is now dabbling into carbon-neutral synthetic fuels with their race MX-5 Miata.

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Mazda MX-5 Miata Synthetic fuel

Mazda has recently unveiled its latest creation, the Mazda Spirit Racing Roadster CNF concept, a race car derived from the iconic MX-5 Miata, and it boasts a remarkable feature - it runs on carbon-neutral fuel. This revolutionary vehicle is all set to compete in the fourth round of the ENEOS Super Taikyu Series at Autopolis, marking a significant step forward in the utilization of synthetic fuels in motorsport.

The ENEOS Super Taikyu Series has proven to be an ideal platform to showcase greener fuels in action. In the past, a special Toyota GR Corolla, powered by a hydrogen combustion engine, participated in this event, further highlighting the increasing interest in environmentally friendly alternatives in the world of motorsports. The introduction of carbon-neutral fuel in the Miata is particularly exciting because the car has always been revered as a lightweight, driver-focused roadster equipped with a charismatic yet not overly powerful gasoline engine.

Considering the challenges in envisioning an electric Miata, and the potential complexity of a hybrid version, the racing edition fueled by carbon-neutral energy emerges as a beacon of hope for enthusiasts. Mazda's Spirit Racing Roadster will compete in the ST-Q class of the Super Taikyu Series, which is exclusively reserved for cars utilizing carbon-neutral fuels. While the automaker has revealed the presence of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder SkyActiv-G engine, further technical details remain undisclosed at this stage. Mazda has been collaborating with other prominent automakers like Toyota and Subaru since November 2021 to develop carbon-neutral fuels, demonstrating the industry's collective efforts towards sustainable alternatives.

The sole image released of the Spirit Racing Roadster showcases its elegant white exterior adorned with a gray livery. The car has been equipped with a new front splitter, distinct wheels and tires, and a substantial rear wing to enhance downforce, improving its performance on the track. Bridgestone, the renowned tire manufacturer, is backing the event and features its name on the concept car's body. In the ST-Q class, the Mazda will go head-to-head with formidable contenders such as the Toyota GR86 CNF Concept, the Honda Civic Type R CNF-R, and Mazda's own 3 Bio Concept, which runs on biodiesel fuel.

While Japanese automakers are actively participating in this racing event, it is evident that they are also committed to exploring alternatives to pure electric power in order to curb emissions. Mazda has ingeniously revived its rotary engine, employing it as a range extender in the MX-30. Similarly, Toyota has been a staunch advocate of diversifying solutions to tackle global warming, emphasizing that a complete shift to electric vehicles alone may not suffice.

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