Mazda patents hybrid drivetrain that may be used in sports cars

According to foreign media reports, Japan’s Mazda Corporation (Mazda) received a patent granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The patent details a hybrid powertrain for a possible future single-row sports car.

The system consists of a rotary engine, three electric motors and a set of replaceable batteries located behind the driver. This unique design is designed to increase the car's range while remaining lightweight . The main permanent magnet motor is installed at the rear of the engine and can provide 25 kW of power. Two further 17 kW induction motors are located at the front of the vehicle. These motors are driven by a set of four battery modules (all with voltages below 60V). Mazda points out that the low-voltage setting is adopted to ensure safe operation for workers and end users.

These modules are typically wired in a 2P 2S configuration. In other words, two modules will be connected together in parallel and then in series. Because the parallel/series connection is done via MOSFETs (electronically controlled high-power switches), the nominal voltage is variable. The patent states that it can provide voltages of 48-96V. Although the voltage is relatively low, an inverter or other power electronics device can increase the voltage in multiple stages, allowing for higher motor speeds.

The system comes with user-replaceable batteries, two modules remain in the vehicle at all times, and the other two modules can be removed and replaced. Battery capacity and weight are not specified in the patent, but previous filings have shown a capacity of 3.7 kilowatt hours and a module weight of approximately 15 pounds.

Mazda's hybrid drivetrain is designed to deliver a more dynamic power curve than a conventional hybrid system. By combining a rotary engine with three electric motors, the vehicle will have a unique way of delivering power to the ground. If Mazda puts into production vehicles equipped with this system, it could provide a different driving experience than before.

All in all, Mazda's patent reveals an unconventional approach to hybrid cars that prioritizes driving pleasure. Currently, the system is still in the patent stage, but it demonstrates Mazda's commitment to innovation and pushing the boundaries of hybrid technology.