Mazda had previously produced the prototype Premacy FCEV in 2001 but this had been powered by a fuel cell.

[4] Power was provided by a two rotor REGENESIS Wankel engine of 1,308 cc (79.8 in3) capacity combined with a 30 kW (40 hp) electric motor.

The battery was recharged by regenerative braking and provided some power to increase acceleration as in a mild hybrid.

[6] Similarly, rather than use a gearbox, drive was through the electric motor, creating a series hybrid vehicle drivetrain.

[8] While running on hydrogen, the Wankel engine produced 110 kW (148 hp) and up to 140 N⋅m (103 lbf⋅ft) torque at 5000 rpm.

[9] The battery was not designed to be a major energy source, providing limited range, but the car was fitted with an external plug for recharging.