The company plans to reduce fuel consumption by 30 percent and also reduce emissions, a target that should be reached by 2015. Mazda cars will use enhanced aerodynamics, fine tuned engines, a weight reducing program and will feature technological innovations such a Start Stop system (the Japanese carmaker calls this the i-stop). All these technologies are included in a program called SKYTECH, that focuses on improving the combustion engines’ efficiency and does not include the development of hybrid projects. The 30 percent fuel consumption cut is measured as compared to the figures posted by Mazda vehicles in 2008. The reduction will be achieved by 2015, but the scheme will be gradually implemented, so the first effects should be felt by 2012.
The new project promises to significantly reduce fuel costs and save money on taxes, thus being an important advantage for fleet customers.
“Our existing customers are already benefiting from the first phase of our environmental strategy.” said Mazda Fleet and Remarketing Director Peter Allibon. “The first vehicles from the SKYTECH programme we expect to start reaching fleets in 2012. The indications are that the emission levels on some Mazda C/D segment models will drop below 100 g/km, while all models will be below 120 g/km.”
Mazda claims that its future petrol powered vehicles will return a fuel economy equivalent to that of current models that are one class smaller. Diesel powered cars are expected to show an even greater improvement in this area. In addition to that, the Japanese carmaker will introduce a new six speed automatic gearbox that will offer a 5 percent fuel consumption cut, as compared to the current five speed transmission.
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