2005 Magna Steyr MILA Concept

The 2005 Magna Steyr MILA Concept, unveiled at the IAA (Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung) in Frankfurt, represents a bold step forward in eco-friendly automotive innovation. MILA, which stands for Magna Innovation Lightweight Auto, is a lightweight, modular sports car powered by Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). It was conceived not as a production car but as a demonstration of Magna Steyr's engineering capabilities, with the ultimate goal of partnering with an OEM for eventual market development.

The MILA Concept is a single-seat, mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car that showcases both environmental consciousness and performance. Powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine modified for monovalent CNG use, the MILA produces 150 horsepower. It boasts a top speed of over 200 km/h and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.9 seconds. The engine conversion required minimal changes—primarily the addition of CNG-specific injection valves—demonstrating how traditional gasoline engines can be adapted for cleaner fuel use with relative ease.

The vehicle's CNG tank is made from a composite material (an aluminum liner wrapped in carbon fiber) and is safely positioned behind the driver's seat. It holds 76 liters, providing a driving range of approximately 200 kilometers. MILA also features Magna Steyr’s advanced lightweight aluminum spaceframe, weighing only 100 kilograms, and glass-reinforced polyester body panels. The entire vehicle weighs in at roughly 850 kilograms, maximizing the benefits of its lightweight construction for both efficiency and driving dynamics.

Designed with modularity in mind, the MILA platform can support various configurations—such as one or two-seat layouts, multiple engine options, and different fuel types (gasoline or CNG). This flexible architecture is ideal for small-series production and customization. It also reflects Magna Steyr’s strategic goal: to provide complete vehicle development services rather than to become a car manufacturer itself.

In terms of design, the MILA is compact and aerodynamic, with dimensions of 3586 mm in length, 1720 mm in width, and 1348 mm in height. The version presented at the IAA features a Perspex canopy, though a more production-ready laminated glass version could be considered in the future.

CNG offers several advantages over traditional automotive gases such as butane or propane. It requires minimal refining, is more efficient (with combustion efficiency reaching up to 32%), and meets stringent emissions standards like California’s AT-PZEV (Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emission Vehicle). Magna Steyr sees significant potential in CNG as a transitional fuel and plans to further develop natural gas technologies, leveraging its extensive experience in fuel tank and fueling system design.

The MILA Concept is also a statement about future mobility. Targeted at a diverse customer base—tech-savvy early adopters, eco-conscious city dwellers, motorcycle enthusiasts seeking four-wheel alternatives, and families looking for a unique third vehicle—it offers Formula One-style excitement in a compact, sustainable package.

Although Magna Steyr has no intention of launching the car under its own brand, the company is actively seeking OEM partners to bring MILA to production. Public and industry response at the IAA would help determine its future. Developed in just six months using virtual modeling for everything from crash testing to aerodynamics, the MILA Concept stands as a testament to Magna Steyr’s engineering prowess and its vision for an agile, sustainable, and emotionally engaging future of driving.