Mazda regenerative braking system improves fuel economy by 10 per cent

Mazda Motor Corporation has developed a regenerative braking system for passenger cars capable of improving fuel economy by approximately 10 per cent.  The new i-ELOOP system, the first of its kind in the world to use a capacitor, will begin to appear in Mazda vehicles from 2012.  

i-ELOOP efficiently converts the vehicle’s kinetic energy into electricity as it decelerates, using the electricity to power the climate control, audio system and numerous other electrical components.  The unique capacitor technology in i-ELOOP can store large volumes of electricity and, unlike batteries, can be charged and discharged rapidly and is resistant to deterioration through prolonged use.  

The name i-ELOOP is an adaptation of ’Intelligent Energy Loop’ and represents Mazda’s intention to efficiently recycle energy in an intelligent way.

Regenerative braking systems are growing in popularity as a means of saving fuel.  They use an electric motor or alternator to generate electricity as the vehicle decelerates, thereby recovering a portion of the vehicle’s kinetic energy.  Unlike the regenerative braking systems found in hybrid vehicles, Mazda’s highly efficient solution avoids the need for a dedicated electric motor and battery.

i-ELOOP features a new variable voltage (12-25V) alternator, a low-resistance Electric Double Layer Capacitor (EDLC) and a DC/DC converter.  i-ELOOP starts to recover kinetic energy the moment the driver lifts off the accelerator pedal and the vehicle begins to decelerate.  The variable voltage alternator generates electricity at up to 25V for maximum efficiency before sending it to the EDLC for storage.  The capacitor, which has been specially developed for use in a vehicle, can be fully charged in seconds.  The DC/DC converter steps down the electricity from 25V to 12V before it is distributed directly to the vehicle’s electrical components.

In stop-start driving conditions, the use of i-ELOOP fuel economy improves by approximately 10 per cent.  Working in conjunction with Mazda’s unique ‘i-stop’ idling stop technology, i-ELOOP can extend the period that the engine can be shut off.

Mazda is working to maximise the efficiency of internal combustion engine vehicles with its groundbreaking SKYACTIV Technology.  By combining this with i-stop, i-ELOOP and other electric devices that enhance fuel economy by eliminating unnecessary fuel consumption, Mazda is striving to deliver vehicles with excellent environmental performance, as well as a Zoom-Zoom driving experience for all its customers.

At the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show, Mazda will debut the i-ELOOP system in the TAKERI concept car, a next generation mid-sized saloon that features SKYACTIV Technology and the Japanese company’s ‘KODO – Soul of Motion’ design theme.

Mazda’s first vehicle for the UK and European market to have the full range of innovative SKYACTIV technologies will be the Mazda CX-5 compact SUV, set for launch in Spring 2012.  This all-new vehicle will offer outstanding reductions in both fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions, combined with the exhilarating driving experience – the Jinba Ittai, or ‘oneness’ between car and driver previously typified by the MX-5 sportscar – for which Mazda is so well known.

MAZDA2 1.3 TS2

YOU would be quite wrong to view the Mazda2 as a mere alternative to mainstream cars like the Vauxhall Corsa and Ford Fiesta because it is a smarter choice than you might think.

At one time Mazda was not considered to be a pacemaker in superminis but with the latest incarnation of the 2 things have changed.

Better looking and more exciting to live with than the car it replaced the latest version fits in well with the Mazda zoom-zoom philosophy.

Mazda has shaved quite a bit of weight off the car and although it is related to the Ford Fiesta, the 1.3 TS2 version I drove felt more nimble.

Adhering closely to respected Mazda core values with a good specification, reasonable price and excellent build quality it is a fun car to drive. Handling is first class for a car of its type and the only down side is a slightly over-firm ride.

But the car's precise steering which was better weighted than some much more expensive cars I had driven proved itself perfectly on twisty rural roads.

Shedding a bit of weight has done wonders for the design making the engine of my test car feel much more responsive.

Bucking the general trend to upsize, the 2 of 2011 is shorter than its predecessor, which aids economy and ease of parking in addition to any improvement it might make in performance and handling.

But it is not all about sporty image with this car because it is surprisingly practical. The boot has a lift-out lining, reversible floor and a healthy 250 litre capacity.

And although you could not brand this model as a dedicated five-seater, rear legroom is generous and a high roof plus a large glass area enhances the sense of space.

The rather everyday interior trim earns a could-do-better mark but controls are intuitively placed and therefore very simple to use.

The 1.3 engine is as lively as any in its market sector and the gearchange is very smooth. Noise levels inside the car are low at city speeds but road noise does drum up the decibels on motorways and dual carriageways.

The media and industry have acknowledged the qualities of this model which won the 2008 World Car of the Year trophy. It has also become one of Mazda’s most popular cars in Europe, attracting more than 207,000 owners.

For the latest version, Mazda conducted much market research to create transport solution that ticked the boxes not only for established supermini buyers, but for those downsizing from larger more thirsty vehicles.

MAZDA6 NOW AVAILABLE WITH ‘NO VAT’ AND 0% APR FINANCE

Local dealership Shires Mazda has introduced a special ‘Pay no VAT’ offer on selected Mazda6 diesel models which means these popular family hatchback and estate cars can now be purchased from just £16,695 (on-the-road).  The ‘Pay no VAT’ campaign is made even more appealing to customers in Taunton by the offer of 0% APR finance over four years with only a 30% deposit required.

“The ‘Pay no VAT’ campaign we are launching for diesel Mazda6 models makes a really compelling offer to consumers, saving them up to £4,000,” comments Don Ricciardi, Dealer Principal, Shires Mazda.

“We are confident that 0% VAT together with our 0% APR finance will attract large numbers of newcomers to the Mazda brand.  It will also reward existing Mazda owners in Taunton, as many of them will be able to benefit from ‘zero cost to change’ when trading in their current cars for a brand new Mazda6.  Customers should visit Shires Mazda on Deanegate Avenue soon to check which Mazda6 models will be available under this programme and book a test drive.”

This latest ‘Pay no VAT’ offer is available only on selected Mazda6 models while stocks last and must end on 31 March 2012.  As well as offering 0% APR finance on Conditional Sale (with a 30% deposit) over 48 months, Mazda is also offering low-cost, 6.9% APR Representative finance on Personal Contract Purchase (no minimum deposit) up to 36 months for all diesel models.

“The Mazda6 delivers a dynamic and engaging drive, with strongly performing 129, 163 or 185ps diesel engines, best-in-class CO2 emissions and an ownership experience which is underpinned by reduced costs and Mazda’s outstanding build quality and reliability,” adds Don Ricciardi.

Mazda6 diesel models deliver great performance (0-62mph in 8.7-to-10.9sec), competitive fuel economy (53.3 to 55.4mpg, combined cycle) and low emissions (133 to 141g/km).  These models qualify for Road Fund Licence bands E and F, while reduced Benefit In Kind costs offer buyers significant savings.

To find out more about the Mazda6, or to book a test drive, contact Shires Mazda on 01823 444410 or visit the showroom on Deanegate Avenue, Taunton.

Mazda’s innovative SKYACTIV engine wins Technology award

·         Smaller capacity member of SKYACTIV-G engine family honoured with prestigious award

·         1.3-litre petrol engine promises more torque, better fuel economy and lower emissions

Mazda Motor Corporation’s newly-developed SKYACTIV-G 1.3 petrol engine has won the 2012 ‘Technology of the Year’ award presented annually by the highly respected Automotive Researchers’ and Journalists Conference of Japan (RJC) and its chairman, Hiroshi Fukunaga. 

The breakthrough SKYACTIV-G 1.3-litre petrol engine has been developed to create a lightweight design that produces more from less.  An ultra-high compression ratio is a central feature of the engine’s design and its 14.0:1 ratio (world’s highest in a mass-production model) has previously only been seen in high-performance racing engines.

Equipped with direct-injection, the Technology award-winning, smaller capacity 1.3-litre engine exhibits outstanding efficiency, especially under high load at low rpm.  It employs many of the innovative technologies developed by Mazda for the larger capacity 2-litre SKYACTIV-G engine already revealed as one of the powerunits for the forthcoming CX-5 compact SUV in 2012.

The SKYACTIV-G 1.3 has significantly less internal friction and delivers more torque with better fuel economy and lower emissions.  To resolve the challenges associated with high compression, such as ‘knocking’ – an unavoidable issue with conventional high-compression petrol engines – the SKYACTIV-G 1.3 features a number of new technologies, such as special piston cavities that are designed to support ideal combustion, and special multi-hole injectors that enable extremely precise control of injecting fuel into the cylinders. 

Mazda’s first vehicle for the European and UK market to have the full range of innovative SKYACTIV technologies will be the Mazda CX-5 compact SUV set for launch early next year.  This all-new vehicle will offer outstanding reductions in both fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions, combined with the exhilarating driving experience – the Jinba Ittai, or ‘oneness’ between car and driver previously typified by the MX-5 sportscar – for which Mazda is proudly known.

NEW MAZDA BREAKS COVER

MAZDA has let the look of the slinky up-coming replacement for the Mazda6 out of the bag with the unveiling of the Takeri concept at the Tokyo Motor Show this month.

The saloon-hatch will get all Mazda’s new fuel saving SKYACTIV technology which includes brand new suspension, lightweight automatic and manual gearboxes and super-efficient petrol and diesel engines as well as start/stop, improved aerodynamics and lower overall weight.

All this has come after the company’s split from Ford and should help it to consolidate its position as an independent producer of high quality machinery.

The benefits of Mazda’s improvements will mean lower operating costs, reduced fuel bills and savings in vehicle taxes.

The company claims this has been done without losing the driving fun that has been part of most of its cars for the past few years.

Engines in the new 6 are likely to be 165bhp 2.0-litre petrol and 150 or 175bhp versions of the same 2.2-litre diesel.

The 150bhp diesel is likely to better 115g/km of CO2 and give combined economy of 65mpg.

Interior

The bold look of the Takeri could be carried over to the new 6, with its crisp lines and a coupe-like profile.

Interior shots reveal a minimal look but sadly, a BMW i-Drive type rotary controller has been adopted instead of a touch screen and that would be a retrograde step.

To find out more about the Mazda range please call Shires Mazda on 01823 444410 or visit the showroom on Deanegate Avenue, Taunton.

MAZDA’S CHRISTMAS TREAT FROM £8,995

For a limited time only, the Mazda2 is available from local dealership Shires Mazda from just £8,995 (OTR) including customer savings, making it the ideal choice for Taunton customers in need of a stylish, practical hatchback this winter.

The Mazda2 line-up features both three-door and five-door hatchback styles, and customers have a choice of three petrol and one diesel engine, manual and automatic transmissions and four generous equipment levels (TS Air Con, TS², Tamura and Sport) – and visitors to the Deanegate Avenue-based dealership can take the car for a test drive.

Drivers looking for a particularly special car this Christmas can buy the limited edition ‘Mazda2 Black’, an 84ps, 1.3-litre 5-door model, which brings a darker, edgy attitude to Mazda’s small car and is available in a choice of three striking colours – Spirited Green, Crystal White and True Red.

The Mazda2 Black also features a black wrapped roof, 16-inch matt black alloy wheels and other visual changes above the standard Mazda2, as well as climate-control air-conditioning to keep drivers and passengers warm during what is expected to be another cold winter.  With prices starting from just £12,395 (OTR), just 618 examples of the Mazda2 Black will be made.

“The Mazda2 Black makes our most popular car even more appealing, combining the fun-loving qualities of a stylish small car with the safety that consumers need on the road all year round,” commented Don Ricciardi, Dealer Principal, Shires Mazda.  “Generous equipment levels mean the car will outshine even the most spectacular present at Christmas this year, but with Mazda’s reputation for reliability, it’s a present that will continue giving pleasure for years to come.”

Prices for the Mazda2 range start from only £8,995 (OTR) for the Mazda2 TS Air Con, whilst TS² models begin at £10,780 with Sport models from £12,595 (including current customer savings).  Every Mazda2 comes with dual front airbags, air-conditioning, electric front windows, CD radio with auxiliary jack and a Thatcham Category 1 alarm to keep the car as safe and secure as possible.

Special customer offers until 31 December 2011

The Mazda2 TS Air Con is now available from just £8,995 including a customer saving of £1,310.  Buyers of this model can also benefit from Representative 6.9% APR** finance when purchasing on either Personal Contract Purchase, or Conditional Sale contracts over 36 months.

Shires Mazda is offering buyers of all other Mazda2 models two finance packages: 1) 0% APR* finance on Mazda Conditional Sale (with a 50% minimum deposit) up to 36 months (excluding TS Air Con).  2) Representative 6.9% APR** finance on Mazda Conditional Sale and Mazda Personal Contract Purchase (no minimum deposit) up to 36 months.  In addition to the special finance offers, customers purchasing Mazda2 models on Mazda Personal Contract Purchase with 6.9% APR** finance can benefit from a deposit contribution of £650 (excluding TS Air Con).

Currently, all Mazda2 models (excluding TS Air Con, Takuya and Black) are also available with a customer saving of £350 off the retail list price.  All offers are for retail customers only and for cars registered before 31 December 2011.

To find out more about the Mazda2, or to book a test drive, contact Shires Mazda on 01823 444410 or visit the showroom on Deanegate Avenue, Taunton.

Finance offers are for retail sales only.  Subject to availability at participating dealers only on vehicles registered until 31 December 2011.  *0% finance available on Mazda Conditional Sale with minimum 50% deposit required.  **6.9% finance available on Mazda Conditional Sale and Mazda Personal Contract Purchase.  Finance subject to status.  Terms and conditions apply.  Applicants must be 18 or over.  Guarantees/Indemnities may be required. Mazda Financial Services RH1 1SR.

MAZDA TRIPS THE LIGHT FANTASTIC

LIGHTWEIGHT body structures first seen on the Mazda2 supermini are a key element of the Japanese car maker’s new fuel efficient SKYACTIV models.

The use of high tensile steel coupled to advanced welding and bonding techniques has helped the company shave 100 kilos off each of its new vehicles - the equivalent weight saving of almost two adults.

The result is a body which is eight per cent lighter and 30 per cent more rigid, improving handling and crash protection.

All SKYACTIV cars feature a straight, continuous underbody frame to aid rigidity and unlike other car makers Mazda has not turned to alternative and more expensive materials such as aluminium or carbon fibre to keep weight down.

The first model to wear the SKYACTIV badge will be the new CX-5 compact crossover which is due to go on sale early next year.

The CX-5 – first seen at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September – will also feature a new suspension and chassis designed to deliver improved high speed stability while retaining agility when manoeuvring around town.

Further improvements reduce pitch under braking which not only improves the ride quality but also reduces stopping distances.

SKYACTIV – Heightened driving pleasure and enhanced economy for all Mazda drivers

·         SKYACTIV Technology offers greater driving pleasure through weight reduction and improved performance, whilst responding to environmental needs

·         Breakthrough economy-boosting and emissions-slashing technology for all Mazda drivers

·         SKYACTIV-G - compression ratio of 14:1, higher than a Formula 1 engine, resulting in a 15% increase in fuel economy

·         SKYACTIV-D - compression ratio of 14:1 – the world’s lowest of any mass-produced diesel engine delivers a 20% increase in fuel economy

·         Innovative SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission delivers a direct driving feel with up to 7% improvement in economy

·         Extensive use of ultra-high tensile chassis steels slashes kerb weight by a full 100kg, resulting in greater agility and dynamism

·         Further in depth information available at www.mazdaskyactiv.co.uk

The Mazda CX-5, which will be seen in production form for the first time at the Frankfurt motorshow, will be the first Mazda built using Mazda’s SKYACTIV technology, but what does SKYACTIV really offer the consumer?

Mazda’s radical new SKYACTIV technology encompasses the whole car, through the intelligent application of advanced engine, transmission, body and chassis technology and lightweight engineering. Mazda’s breakthrough SKYACTIV technologies deliver uncompromised driving pleasure and class-leading environmental and safety performance and will be an integral part of every new Mazda model that comes to market from 2012 and not just selected “eco” models.

Every Mazda driver will therefore fully benefit from this egalitarian approach to improved fuel economy and emissions which means lower road fund tax, less company car tax and smaller fuel bills. This flies in the face of the current trend of forcing environmentally-conscious drivers to pay a premium for economy-oriented and hybrid models.

SKYACTIV centres on three key areas – advanced engines with world-beating compression ratios, highly efficient transmissions, and sophisticated lightweight chassis technology for outstanding crash safety performance and enhanced driving enjoyment.

Up to 80 per cent of the energy contained in fuel is lost within a vehicle’s powertrain, so Mazda’s engineers adopted a radical back-to-basics approach to boosting the outright efficiency of their next-generation engines.

The new petrol-powered SKYACTIV-G engine features a class-leading compression ratio of 14:1 – higher than that of a Formula 1 engine. The result is 15 per cent increase in fuel efficiency, 15 per cent drop in CO₂ - leading to lower road fund licence and benefit-in-kind bills - and an equally impressive 15 per cent hike in torque across the entire rev-range.

The SKYACTIV-D diesel engine, features an exceptionally low 14:1 compression ratio, coupled with two turbo chargers it posts some equally impressive figures, a full 20 per cent more economical than the powerplant it replaces, leading to reduced fuel costs and lower road fund licence and benefit-in-kind costs. It revs smoothly and cleanly to a high 5,200rpm and easily meets EU Stage 6 emission levels.

Rather than develop a range of transmissions to meet the different requirements of its global markets, Mazda’s drivetrain engineers took the bold decision to develop just two all-new six-speed transmissions to effectively deliver market demands.

The SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed lock-up automatic transmission brings together the best attributes of conventional step automatic transmissions, continuously variable transmissions and dual clutch transmissions in one compact and lightweight package. The result is a smooth and highly efficient gearbox that delivers up to 7 per cent better economy along with a direct feel and quick shift pattern – qualities aimed at the enthusiastic driver.

The SKYACTIV-MT is a lightweight six-speed manual transmission that has been designed to deliver crisp wrist-flick gear changes. Using a common second and third input gear and removing the reverse idle shaft has reduced the number of moving parts and trimmed its overall weight by 3kg.

Mazda’s SKYACTIV engineers also wanted to create a body that was stiffer and stronger, for enhanced dynamic performance and superior impact protection.

The new SKYACTIV-Body is the result of revisiting basic chassis principles and employs a forward-thinking straight and continuous basic framework in which each chassis section functions in a co-ordinated manner with other sections, creating a structure that disperses impact forces widely throughout the entire framework.

This, along with a 20 per cent increase in the amount of high-tensile steel, a higher proportion of weld-bonded sections and a markedly higher number of spot weld points has resulted in a body that is a full 30 per cent stiffer compared with current models in the Mazda range resulting in greater steering and suspension precision, meets the top tier criteria for crash safety assessments in all markets and an 8 per cent reduction in body in white weight, leading to significant reductions in fuel and emission based tax costs.

The SKYACTIV-Chassis is an impressive 14 percent lighter than before, and features suspension and steering systems that have been redeveloped from scratch to reinforce Mazda’s trademark driving dynamism while still achieving a lower overall weight, benefiting driving dynamics, economy and emissions.

The strut front and multi-link ear layout features lightweight construction as well optimised linkages and bushes for enhanced agility and greater ride comfort. A new electric power-steering set-up with a higher steering ratio, along with a new lightweight and highly rigid cross member results in exceptional steering precision and feedback.

For further in-depth information the Mazda SKYACTIV site is available at www.mazdaskyactiv.co.uk

MAZDA REACHING FOR THE SKY

THE first car to feature Mazda’s new fuel efficient SKYACTIV technology will make its debut next month.

With a brand new chassis, body and engines the CX-5 has been designed to be as lean and mean as possible.

Mazda is claiming a 2.2-litre diesel version of the car fitted with a stop/start system will have class leading CO2 emissions below 120g/km and average fuel economy of more than 60 miles per gallon.

The CX-5 will have its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show on September 13 and is due on sale early next year.

A compact crossover SUV, the car is the first to be styled around Mazda’s Kodo design theme which was revealed on its Minagi and Shinari concept models.

With flowing aerodynamic lines, the body is designed to be as sleek as possible – and the style is likely to become the ‘new face’ of future Mazda models.

As well as using lightweight components the SKYACTIV system features a range of new petrol and diesel engines with optimum compression ratios of 14:1. In the case of the petrol engine that is more than a Formula 1 car.

The CX-5 will be powered by a two-litre petrol engine as well as the diesel and will be available in both manual and auto forms.

Mazda will also be showing the latest version of the Mazda3 hatchback at Frankfurt which has been upgraded to reduce exhaust emissions and improve handling.

To find out more about the Mazda range, please call Shires Mazda on 01823 444410 or visit the showroom on Deanegate Avenue, Taunton.

Mazda unleashes track-inspired ‘Black Limited Edition’ MX-5 and Mazda2

·         Mazda MX-5 Sport Black inspired by this year’s highly successful MX-5 GT race car

·         Mazda2 Black introduces a black vinyl roof, privacy glass and matt black alloy wheels

·         Only 500 and 618, respectively of these Limited Edition Mazdas available for the UK market

Inspired by the highly successful 275bhp Mazda MX-5 GT race car competing in the 2011 Britcar Production GTN Championship, Mazda has introduced two new ‘Black Limited Edition’ models – a Mazda MX-5 Sport Black and a Mazda2 Black – bringing a darker edge to Mazda’s model range. 

The success of the 850kg MX-5 GT race car is that it retains the same characteristics that make the road-going Mazda MX-5 a great handling, nimble and fun-to-drive roadster.  In its first year of racing the MX-5 GT has achieved two podiums and is currently third in class. The MX-5 GT race car continues to challenge convention, taking on the more powerful established race cars from Lotus, BMW and Ferrari. 

The success of this year’s MX-5 race programme and the popularity of MX-5 GT has lead to the track-inspired ‘Black Limited Edition’ Mazda MX-5 and Mazda2. Available from mid-July, the Mazda MX-5 Sport Black is distinguished by unique paint finishes and an enhanced specification, offering more for a lower price than the car it’s based on.  Externally the car is highlighted by a Brilliant Black powered retractable hard-top, this is in contrast with the choice of bodywork colours – Spirited Green metallic, Crystal White Pearlescent and Velocity Red mica – but compliments the dark ‘gun metal’ 17-inch alloy wheels.  

The model also comes with black leather interior with contrasting ‘sand’ colour stitching, Piano Black steering wheel and deco panel, and unique ‘Black Limited Edition’ exterior badging, uniquely numbered interior plaque and Limited Edition floor mats.

The MX-5 Sport Black incorporates the generous equipment specification of the Sport Tech model, including climate control air-conditioning, a premium Bose^® audio system, an integrated hands-free Bluetooth^® system, cruise control and front fog lights.  Owners will also benefit from the world’s fastest folding powered retractable roof, which goes up or down in 12 seconds.

Only 500 examples of the Mazda MX-5 Sport Black will be produced, each costing £22,995 (OTR), just £360 more than the 160ps, 2.0-litre, six-speed transmission Sport Tech model on which it is based. 

“Special Edition models of the Mazda MX-5 have always been eagerly received by UK consumers, and the new Sport Black model takes inspiration from the MX-5 GT race car that embodies Mazda’s Defy Convention brand strategy,” comments Peter Allibon, Sales Director, Mazda Motors UK.  “Both the race car and road-going sportscar remain true to their roots, those of driving entertainment, great handling and fun to drive.  The Sport Black model delivers a distinctive and sharper edge to our long-running star performer and as in the Britcar Production GTN Championship, it remains unrivalled as a rewarding sportscar.”

Five-door Mazda2 with attitude

Following the MX-5 Sport Black theme, the new Limited Edition Mazda2 Black five-door is also available in Spirited Green metallic, Crystal White Pearlescent and True Red.  Based on the 84ps, 1.3-litre Tamura model, the Mazda2 Black adds a black vinyl roof, matt black 16-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights, privacy glass and a rear bumper sports trim.

Inside, there is the Sports interior with climate control air-conditioning, a Parrot Bluetooth^® hands-free system, electric rear windows, plus unique ‘Black Edition’ exterior badging, uniquely numbered interior plaque and Limited Edition floor mats.

Inspired again by Mazda’s convention-defying race car, just 618 examples of the Mazda2 Black will be produced, with prices starting at £12,395 (OTR) for the True Red version and £12,815 for the other metallic and pearlescent colours.

The next Britcar race takes place at the Snetterton race circuit from 13-14 August 2011.