Many carmakers often use “mules” to test their own prototype components under complete secrecy. 

In some cases, they go to even greater lengths by utilizing the bodyshell of a car from another brand.

For instance, Jaguar famously tested the turbocharged V6 engine of its XJ220 supercar by shoving it into the back of an old Ford Transit van – creating one of the fastest commercial vehicles in the world in the process.

It seems that automakers are back to the same old tricks, as Carscoops reported on February 2023.

A Mazda CX-30 wrapped in camouflage was seen running around with what appears to be the headlights, bumper, front fenders, and taillights from a Tesla Model 3. Meanwhile, the distinct alloy wheels come from the Tesla Model Y, with red brake calipers to boot.

Although neither Tesla nor Mazda has released any official information about this, it is possible that the American electric-vehicle (EV) manufacturer is testing some of its parts using the small Mazda crossover.

Conversely, the “Franken-mule” could signal a possible tie-up between Tesla and Mazda, especially as the latter is years behind other carmakers that jumped onto the EV bandwagon early.

The CX-30 has various powerplants, including a 2.0-liter and 2.5-liter gasoline inline-4s and a 1.8-liter turbodiesel inline-4. There is also a 2.0-liter mild-hybrid model, but there is no battery EV variant as of press time.

Mazda also makes the MX-30 crossover that features a plug-in hybrid system with a rotary generator.

Battery EVs by 2028

The Japanese carmaker announced on November 2022 that it is planning to introduce fully electric vehicles by 2028.

This is part of Mazda’s goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Mazda expects EVs to make up 25 to 40 percent of its global sales by 2030.

This is an apparent departure from its previous hard stance on harnessing the potential of internal combustion engines through technical development and the use of synthetic fuels. 

Reports claim that the company will significantly divert new investment from gasoline and diesel models to electric vehicle technologies such as EVs and plug-in hybrids. 

However, it maintains its approach to providing multiple solutions in its product portfolio to achieve its carbon neutrality goals.

This ranges from continuing to produce internal combustion engines, to hybrids, rotary engine electrification and full battery EV development.

What do you think this “Tesla-fied” CX-30 is all about -  a clandestine engineering exercise or a bright idea for the next Custom Car Show?

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