This is the sort of hybrid that makes huge sense -
https://www.roadandtrack.com/news/a42485378/mazda-rotary-back-plug-in-hybrid-crossover/"The R-EV uses an 830-cc rotary gasoline engine to extend the 53-mile all-electric range (on the more generous WLTP drive cycle). That engine provides 75 hp, but not to the wheels. The ICE exclusively charges the battery, with all propulsion coming from the electric motor. That motor makes 167 hp in this application, with 191 lb-ft of torque on tap."
... the tiny & light rotary (12cms x 7.5cms!) runs at constant speed/load to charge the battery, which makes it more efficient - taking the range to 400 miles. It lets them keep the battery small & light, but with useful 50 ev/400 mile hybrid mile range. It charges in 25 minutes - so you'd get useful charge while stopping for a comfort break on a longer trip. Smartest thing I've seen since the BMW i3 Rex. If Mazda put this powertrain in an MX5 they'd sell plenty.
Will