he electrification of the MX-5 Miata is part of Mazda's broader plan to make its entire lineup at least partially electric by 2030. While the Vision Study Model showcased by Mazda could potentially offer hints of an electric Miata, it is more likely that the company will introduce a hybrid or plug-in hybrid version before a fully electric variant due to the challenges of packaging a battery with sufficient range in the small footprint of the Miata.
Mazda plans to work with Rohm Co. for developing electric powertrains and has signed an agreement with Envision AESC for battery development, which could impact the next-generation Miata. The Miata's small footprint could make it difficult to package a battery with sufficient range, as the heavy battery pack would hurt performance, and pure EV hardware would likely mean a large hike in price. Mazda could also work with another automaker to develop the platform, splitting its costs to keep the car affordable à la BMW Z4 and Toyota Supra.
Mazda will attempt to hold the line on keeping the Miata from becoming too expensive, but given the advanced powertrain and other enhancements, a price in the neighborhood of $33,000 seems reasonable.
Motortrend estimates we'll see the next MX-5 in time for summer 2025 top-down driving as a 2026 model.
