Mazda Announces Electrification and Connectivity Strategies for Cars That Invigorate Mind and Body

Continues taking a human-centered approach to the joy of driving; contributing to the earth, society and people

HIROSHIMA, Japan, Oct. 2, 2018 /CNW/ - Mazda Motor Corporation today announced electrification and connectivity strategies that build on the company's human-centered development philosophy, aiming to further advance the joy of driving, provide both drivers and passengers with peace of mind through an enhanced sense of connection with the car in everyday driving situations, and offer an emotionally enriching joy of life through car ownership. The strategies are based on Mazda's long-term vision for technology development, "Sustainable Zoom-Zoom 2030," which makes it the company's mission to preserve the beauty of the earth and enrich society and individual lives and seek solutions in the areas of people, society and the earth.

The electrification and connectivity technologies outlined below will further enhance the inherent value of the automobile.

    --  Electrification TechnologiesMazda will strive to reduce carbon dioxide
        emissions and enhance the joy of driving by deploying compact,
        lightweight electrification technologies while further refining the
        internal combustion engine, which is forecast to be equipped in the
        majority of new cars for many years to come. The company will introduce
        electric vehicles as the optimal solution in regions that generate a
        high ratio of electricity from clean energy sources or restrict certain
        vehicle types to reduce air pollution.
        --  With a view to achieving a 90-percent reduction versus 2010 levels
            in its corporate average "well-to-wheel" carbon dioxide emissions by
            2050, Mazda will deploy some form of electrification in all
            production vehicles by 2030.
        --  By 2030, Mazda expects that internal combustion engines combined
            with some form of electrification will account for 95 percent of the
            vehicles it produces and battery electric vehicles will account for
            5 percent.
        --  In-house development of electric vehicles will leverage the
            advantages of electric drive systems and be guided by Mazda's unique
            human-centered development philosophy that focuses on human traits
            and sensibilities.
        --  Mazda will develop two battery electric vehicles, one powered solely
            by battery and another that pairs a battery with a newly developed
            range extender powered by Mazda's small, lightweight and
            exceptionally quiet rotary engine. The range extender will recharge
            the battery when necessary to effectively increase the vehicle's
            driving range.
        --  The concept behind the rotary-powered range extender was to leverage
            the rotary engine's small size and high power output to make
            multiple electrification technology solutions possible via a shared
            packaging layout.
        --  Taking advantage of the rotary engine's compatibility with gaseous
            fuels, the rotary-powered range extender is designed to also burn
            liquefied petroleum gas and provide a source of electricity in
            emergencies.

    --  Connectivity TechnologiesIn line with its human-centered development
        philosophy, Mazda will develop connectivity technologies that offer an
        enriching experience of the joy of life, connecting people by
        facilitating the sharing of experiences and feelings through cars. By
        offering this new value together with the joy of driving, Mazda aims to
        inspire people and enrich society.
        --  Contribute to the resolution of social issues, such as the weakening
            of interpersonal connections that has accompanied changes in
            society, by connecting people and society through connectivity
            technologies.
        --  Link connectivity with model-based development and reflect the
            results in future product development, improving quality and
            customer satisfaction.
        --  Leverage the alliance with Toyota Motor Corporation in the
            development of connectivity technologies.

"They say that the automotive industry is undergoing a once-in-a-century transformation. At Mazda, we see this as an opportunity to create a new car culture," said Akira Marumoto, Mazda's Representative Director, President and CEO. "New trends and technologies in connectivity, autonomy, sharing and electrification offer new possibilities for creating ever more attractive cars. Using new technologies based on our unique human-centered development philosophy, Mazda will, in the spirit of 'Never Stop Challenging,' continue to pursue the joy of driving and work to create an emotional connection with customers that rivals the strongest brands in the world."

SOURCE Mazda Canada Inc.