Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com Autoblog Green http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[REPORT: Toyota to supply Mazda with hybrid components, new model coming in 2013]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/report-toyota-to-supply-mazda-with-hybrid-components-new-model/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/report-toyota-to-supply-mazda-with-hybrid-components-new-model/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/report-toyota-to-supply-mazda-with-hybrid-components-new-model/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2009 Mazda Tribute Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to the Yomiuri Shimbun daily newspaper, Mazda has reached an agreement with Toyota that will strengthen its ability to produce fuel efficient automobiles. Under the deal, Toyota will reportedly supply Mazda with hybrid components, including electric motors and control systems, for a vehicle Mazda plans to sell in 2013. Further, Toyota partner Panasonic will provide batteries for the vehicle, which is expected to sell in the tens of thousands of units a year.

As a much smaller automaker than many of its rivals, Mazda reportedly has just one-eighth of the research and development budget of Toyota. To help minimize that disadvantage, Mazda has long relied on Ford for technology, including hybrid drivetrains as used in the Japanese automaker's Tribute Hybrid SUV, which is based on the Ford Escape.

Lately, though, it seems Ford and Mazda are collaborating less on future automobile development, and Mazda announced plans to raise up to $1.1 billion for environmentally-friendly technology by issuing 315.2 million new shares and selling 96.8 million treasury shares.


Gallery: Mazda Tribute Hybrid SUV


[Source: Yomiuri Shimbun]

REPORT: Toyota to supply Mazda with hybrid components, new model coming in 2013 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mazda hybrid2013MazdaHybridmazdamazda hybridmazda hybridsmazda toyotaMazdaHybridMazdaHybridsMazdaToyotatoyotaFri, 18 Dec 2009 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata to get SKY-G power]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-2011-mazda-mx-5-miata-to-get-sky-g-power/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-2011-mazda-mx-5-miata-to-get-sky-g-power/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-2011-mazda-mx-5-miata-to-get-sky-g-power/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mazda MX-5 Miata Superlight Concept -- Click above for high-res image gallery

Big changes for the Miata? As a blog that's gone on record as adoring the current iteration of Mazda's quintessential sportscar, that notion is a bit worrisome. But we're a bit calmed down by the thought that the company is headed in the right direction. According to Inside Line, the 2011 MX-5 Miata will shrink in size a bit with an expected curb weight of just 2,200 pounds. That low weight should pay big dynamic dividends and boost efficiency, but the big news on that front will be an all-new engine.

Powering the next-gen Miata will reportedly be either a 1.3-liter or 1.5-liter version of the four-cylinder SKY-G engine (G as in gasoline) that Mazda showed off earlier this year at the Tokyo Motor Show. With an expected 150 horsepower, the current model's power-to-weight ratio would remain intact, and Mazda predicts the downsized mill will return up to 50 miles per gallon in the little sportscar. These are changes we can live with.



[Source: Inside Line]

REPORT: 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata to get SKY-G power originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 11:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mazdamazda miata superlightMazda MX-5Mazda MX-5 MiataMazda MX5mazda mx5 miataMazda SKYMazda SKY engineMazda SKY enginesmazda sky gMazdaMiataSuperlightMazdaMx-5MazdaMx-5MiataMazdaMx5MazdaMx5MiataMazdaSkyMazdaSkyEngineMazdaSkyEnginesMazdaSkyGMiaTylermx-5mx5Fri, 11 Dec 2009 11:04:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Mazda unveils North American spec Mazda2]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-mazda-unveils-north-american-spec-mazda2/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-mazda-unveils-north-american-spec-mazda2/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-mazda-unveils-north-american-spec-mazda2/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 Mazda2 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2011 Ford Fiesta may have been the big B-segment reveal last night, but Mazda has finally decided to bring its own compact runabout to North America, and it's based on the same architecture as it Blue Oval sibling. Originally launched in Europe, Japan, and Australia a couple of years ago, the Mazda2 was very well-received by media and consumers alike, a warm reception that probably helped make the case for the Japanese automaker to bring it over to the United States. That time has arrived, and the Mazda2 will be available in North America as a 2011 model.

Although Mazda revealed what the North American spec version will look like, it's still holding back additional information, including engine specifications, interior details, and pricing. We'll get more details soon, but in the meantime, check the full release after the jump and our live pics from the floor below.



Live photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading LA 2009: Mazda unveils North American spec Mazda2

LA 2009: Mazda unveils North American spec Mazda2 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>220112011 Mazda22011Mazda2lala 2009la auto showla auto show 2011 mazda2La2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2011Mazda2mazdamazda2Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[EnerDel will supply batteries for smart grid project near Tokyo]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/enerdel-will-supply-batteries-for-smart-grid-project-near-tokyo/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/enerdel-will-supply-batteries-for-smart-grid-project-near-tokyo/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/enerdel-will-supply-batteries-for-smart-grid-project-near-tokyo/#commentsFiled under: ,

EnerDel Th!nk City - Click above for high-res image gallery

EnerDel is making moves. The battery maker recently announced it will work on a smart grid project out in Portland, Oregon and today said that it is part of a similar program Tsukuba City, near Tokyo, Japan. The Japanese project uses Mazda2 vehicles (known as Demios in Japan) and starts in March. Mazda announced last week that it would provide three Demios vehicles to test not only the plug-in technology but also ways to share the cars (a la ZipCar) and use renewable energy to charge the vehicles. EnerDel's contribution to the project is to provide a 24 kW battery pack and to test it in "fixed applications" (i.e., home energy storage). The powertrain for the Demios test vehicles will come from Think Global, which makes sense. The car share vehicle will get charged from solar panels at their base at a Family Mart convenience store. Another partner in the program is Itochu, which has been working with EnerDel in Japan since February. EnerDel has long said it is working with automakers on plug-in hybrid projects, and we expect more announcements are on the way.

[Source: EnerDel]

Continue reading EnerDel will supply batteries for smart grid project near Tokyo

EnerDel will supply batteries for smart grid project near Tokyo originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>enerdelenerdel batteryenerdel mazdaEnerdelBatteryEnerdelMazdamazda phevmazda plug-inMazdaPhevMazdaPlug-inTue, 01 Dec 2009 14:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Mazda2 to be basis of electric vehicle test fleet]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/mazda2-to-be-basis-of-electric-vehicle-test-fleet/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/mazda2-to-be-basis-of-electric-vehicle-test-fleet/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/mazda2-to-be-basis-of-electric-vehicle-test-fleet/#commentsFiled under: ,


2010 Mazda2 (Thailand-spec) - Click above for high-res image gallery

Until now, Mazda's most notable alternative fuel programs have been the hydrogen-powered Wankel rotaries currently being used in an RX-8 test fleet. The "Zoom-Zoom" automaker has acknowledged plans to build new hybrid-powered vehicles in the coming years, but to date has avoided the battery electric vehicle arena.

That is about to change thanks to a newly-announced partnership with Itochu Corporation and Tsukuba City. Mazda and Itochu will convert three Demios (known as the Mazda2 outside of Japan) to plug-in battery power. Besides just testing the electric drives, the program will also test car sharing services using the EVs as well as using renewable energy to charge the vehicles. The program will also evaluate battery reuse programs that put used EV energy systems into use in fixed applications. The test program will launch in March 2010.



[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Mazda2 to be basis of electric vehicle test fleet

Mazda2 to be basis of electric vehicle test fleet originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 16:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mazdaMazda 2Mazda Demiomazda demio evmazda evmazda2MazdaDemioMazdaDemioEvMazdaEvFri, 27 Nov 2009 16:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Mazda i-Stop wins another award, 2009 Japan Eco-Products]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/mazda-i-stop-wins-another-award-2009-japan-eco-products/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/mazda-i-stop-wins-another-award-2009-japan-eco-products/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/mazda-i-stop-wins-another-award-2009-japan-eco-products/#commentsFiled under: ,



Mazda has just garnered another award for its new i-stop system that debuted this year on the Axela (3) and Bianti MPV. This is Mazda's take on an automatic start/stop system to eliminate idling but with a novel new twist. Rather than just use a more robust starter and battery to crank up the engine every time you pull away from a stop, it takes advantage of the direct injection. The engine is stopped in a specific position each time (one of the pistons just below top dead center on the power stroke) and fuel is sprayed in directly and ignited. The expansion of the burning gas gets the piston moving and fires the engine with less strain on the starter.

Mazda has been recognized by the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism with one of its Eco-Product awards for 2009. Like other start stop systems, i-stop can provide up to a 10 percent reduction in consumption in urban driving thanks to the idle reduction.

Gallery: 2010 Mazda3 i-Stop


[Sources: Mazda]

Continue reading Mazda i-Stop wins another award, 2009 Japan Eco-Products

Mazda i-Stop wins another award, 2009 Japan Eco-Products originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto start stopAutoStartStopi-stopmazda i-stopmazda idlingMazdaI-stopMazdaIdlingstart stopstart stop systemStartStopStartStopSystemTue, 24 Nov 2009 09:58:00 EST<![CDATA[LA Preview: Mazda2 to make its North American debut]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/la-preview-mazda2-to-make-its-north-american-debut/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/la-preview-mazda2-to-make-its-north-american-debut/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/la-preview-mazda2-to-make-its-north-american-debut/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 Mazda2 - click above for high-res image gallery

Mazda made it official this morning that it will be bringing the B-segment 2 to the North American market late next year. The current generation Mazda2 has been sale in Europe and elsewhere for two years but we'll be seeing it here for the first at the LA Auto Show in a couple of weeks. The 2 shares its platform with the Ford Fiesta that will also make its U.S. production spec debut in Los Angeles. Mazda hasn't revealed any other details yet about powertrains or where the car would be sourced from. We expect a 1.6-liter four will likely be the primary engine. Judging by the teaser shot they released, we can certainly expect to see the car at least in five door hatchback form, but given that this is the U.S., we would also expect the four-door sedan to be at Mazda stores.


[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading LA Preview: Mazda2 to make its North American debut

LA Preview: Mazda2 to make its North American debut originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA autoshowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009los angeleslos angeles auto showLosAngelesLosAngelesAutoShowmazdaMazda 2mazda2mazda2 north americamazda2 usMazda2NorthAmericaMazda2UsWed, 18 Nov 2009 14:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Mazda i-stop wins RJC Technology of the Year Award]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/mazda-i-stop-wins-rjc-technology-of-the-year-award/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/mazda-i-stop-wins-rjc-technology-of-the-year-award/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/mazda-i-stop-wins-rjc-technology-of-the-year-award/#commentsFiled under: ,

Mazda3 with i-Stop - click above for high-res image gallery

It's not the sexist part of a modern, efficient vehicle, but anti-idling tech is pretty darn useful. The Automotive Researchers' and Journalists' Conference of Japan (RJC) thinks so, and has picked Mazda's i-stop as its Technology of the Year for 2009. I-stop is a system that shuts down the engine when the car has stopped, much like the Stop&Start Micro-Hybrid system (which won the 2008 Automechanika Innovation Award) found in Daimler cars, Audi's start stop system, Fiat's start stop system, and, oh you get the picture. Everyone's doing it.

I-stop is pretty fast, able to restart the engine about a third of a second, and Mazda says it reduces fuel consumption by about 15 percent in a vehicle like the Mazda3 (aka Mazda Axela). In 2007, RJC picked Volkswagen's TSI engine technology as the Technology of the Year.


Gallery: 2010 Mazda3 i-Stop


[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Mazda i-stop wins RJC Technology of the Year Award

Mazda i-stop wins RJC Technology of the Year Award originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 09:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>i-stopmazdamazda 3mazda hybridmazda i-stopmazda idlemazda idlingmazda3MazdaHybridMazdaI-stopMazdaIdleMazdaIdlingWed, 18 Nov 2009 09:53:00 EST<![CDATA[LA Auto Show Design Challenge entrants reveal Youthmobile 2030 designs]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/la-auto-show-design-challenge-entrants-reveal-youthmobile-2030-d/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/la-auto-show-design-challenge-entrants-reveal-youthmobile-2030-d/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/la-auto-show-design-challenge-entrants-reveal-youthmobile-2030-d/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Mazda Souga Concept from LA Design Challenge 2009 - Click above for high-res image gallery

This year's iteration of the annual Design Challenge at the LA Auto Show asks the question: How will a new generation of drivers age 16-23 - raised with cell phones, web cams and online communities - emotionally connect to the automobile in 2030? We don't know the answer either, but at least six designers from some of the world's top automakers decided to give it a go with their own ideas. if you thought the Aptera was futuristic, check these out.

First up are the eSpira and eOra from Audi, which are controlled by thought and by the minutest adjustments to the pilot's body. Next we have the General Motors Car Hero... yes, the name is borrowed from the popular Guitar Hero line of games and the car, as you might imagine, "turns driving into gaming." What happens when the inevitable "Game Over" comes at the end? Moving along, we come to the Honda Helix, a shape-shifting vehicle that borrows actual DNA from its owner. Yuck, we don't want to be a car, we want to drive a car.

Which brings us to the Mazda Souga, easily our favorite out of this crop of concepts. This vision for the future would have each owner design his own car for the low price of $2,000 while paying an additional monthly usage fee that also covers the price of electricity to power the Souga.

Nissan's vision for the future includes cars that get their power from an electrically-charged roadway called the GRID, and the vowel-challenged V2G UNLMTD is quickly hacked into an OFF-GRID transportation device by the next breed of young hackers. Lastly, we have the Toyota Link. According to Toyota, future college students will have nearly no income and will rely on mass transit vehicles like the Link that allow them to interact via their various social networks on their daily commutes. Sounds boring to us, but what do we know?

Be sure to check out all six designs in our high-res image gallery below and hit the jump for the official press release.



[Source: LA Design Challenge]

Continue reading LA Auto Show Design Challenge entrants reveal Youthmobile 2030 designs

LA Auto Show Design Challenge entrants reveal Youthmobile 2030 designs originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audi eoraaudi espiraAudiEoraAudiEspiradesign challengedesign challenge 2009DesignChallengeDesignChallenge2009general motors car heroGeneralMotorsCarHerohonda helixHondaHelixLA Design challengeLA Design Challenge 2009LaDesignChallengeLaDesignChallenge2009mazda sougaMazdaSouganissan v2gnissan v2g unmltdNissanV2gNissanV2gUnmltdtoyota linkToyotaLinkThu, 05 Nov 2009 18:57:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Mazda working on business case for diesels in America]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/24/report-mazda-working-on-business-case-for-diesels-in-america/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/24/report-mazda-working-on-business-case-for-diesels-in-america/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/24/report-mazda-working-on-business-case-for-diesels-in-america/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Stop us if you've heard this one. A major global automaker with plans in place to increase fuel efficiency X percent by X date offers all kinds of cool diesel engines all over the world except in America. The reason? Americans don't buy diesels, they say. In this case, the automaker in question is Mazda, and the goal is to boost the fuel efficiency of its fleet of cars and trucks 30 percent by 2015.

According to Seita Kanai, head of research and development at Mazda, the Japanese automaker would need to sell at least 10,000 diesel engines in the States to make a profitable business case. Not surprisingly, Mazda is studying Volkswagen's recent success in offering diesels here in America to see if there's any chance of moving the required units.

Whatever the case, we know that Mazda has some worthwhile new powerplants that we'd love to see installed in the engine bays of products like the current Mazda3 and upcoming Mazda2.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]

REPORT: Mazda working on business case for diesels in America originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 24 Oct 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dieselmazdamazda dieselmazda sky dmazda sky dieselMazda SKY enginesMazdaDieselMazdaSkyDMazdaSkyDieselMazdaSkyEnginesSat, 24 Oct 2009 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Mazda looking to raise $1.1B to catch up in hybrid race]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/report-mazda-looking-to-raise-1-1b-to-catch-up-in-hybrid-race/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/report-mazda-looking-to-raise-1-1b-to-catch-up-in-hybrid-race/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/report-mazda-looking-to-raise-1-1b-to-catch-up-in-hybrid-race/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2009 Mazda Tribute - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to a report from Reuters, Mazda plans to raise up to $1.1 billion (95.9 billion yen) by issuing 315.2 million new shares and selling 96.8 million treasury shares. The resulting funds are to be reinvested in the company, mainly for research and development into hybrids and other eco-friendly technologies.

So far, Mazda's only hybrid has been a version of its Tribute crossover utility vehicle, which was in reality little more than a badge-engineered version of the Ford Escape Hybrid. Last year, Ford reduced its stake in Mazda to 13.8 percent, meaning that the Japanese automaker could no longer rely on the Blue Oval for eco-friendliness and needed to make its own independent investment into new technologies.

Back in April, Mazda announced plans to boost the fuel efficiency of its fleet of cars and trucks by 30 percent, and that laudable effort will begin in 2011 with a new fuel efficient version of its bread-and-butter 2.0-liter four cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission. Well, now we know how all this newfangled Sustainable Zoom Zoom stuff will be paid for.


Gallery: Mazda Tribute Hybrid SUV


[Source: Reuters]

REPORT: Mazda looking to raise $1.1B to catch up in hybrid race originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 13:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hybridmazdamazda hybridmazda hybridsmazda sharesmazda stockMazdaHybridMazdaHybridsMazdaSharesMazdaStockMon, 05 Oct 2009 13:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: Mazda debuts next-gen SKY clean engines, transmission and Kiyora concept]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/29/tokyo-2009-mazda-debuts-next-gen-sky-clean-engines-transmissio/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/29/tokyo-2009-mazda-debuts-next-gen-sky-clean-engines-transmissio/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/29/tokyo-2009-mazda-debuts-next-gen-sky-clean-engines-transmissio/#commentsFiled under: ,


Mazda Kiyora Concept set to debut at the Tokyo Motor Show - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mazda just dumped a bunch of info about their next generation clean engines that will be officially unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in October, and we have two words for you: direct and diesel. Along with its next-gen 'Mazda SKY Drive' high-efficiency automatic transmissions, visitors to the at 41st Tokyo Motor Show will get to see the 'Mazda SKY-G' direct injection gas engine and the 'Mazda SKY-D' clean diesel engine. The house of Zoom-Zoom is hoping to use these advanced technologies to boost their corporate average fuel economy by a whopping 30 percent between 2008 and 2015.

In typical Mazda fashion, they want everyone to know that they haven't given up on driving excitement in their move to more eco-friendly fare. Mazda is out to prove that 'fun' and 'green' don't have to be mutually exclusive terms. The Mazda SKY display area will be broken into "Technologies for Today, Tomorrow and The Future." The Today area will show off things like i-stop, the idle start-stop feature that debuted on the 2010 Mazda3. The Future area will host the rotary-powered Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid among other things. But the one we're really waiting to see is the Mazda Kiyora concept.

The Kiyora is a lightweight concept powered by a new 1.3L d.i. engine. It will travel 32 kilometers per liter of fuel (under Japan's 10-15 mode test cycle, about 75 mpg U.S.), and promises lots of smiles per gallon as well. Besides that new SKY engine, the Kiyora will also feature the new Mazda SKY-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, i-stop, regenerative braking, and super-slick aerodynamics. It also weighs at least 100 kg less than any other car in the current lineup. Follow the jump for more details and check out the gallery as well.


[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Tokyo 2009: Mazda debuts next-gen SKY clean engines, transmission and Kiyora concept

Tokyo 2009: Mazda debuts next-gen SKY clean engines, transmission and Kiyora concept originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 09:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingmazdaMazda enginemazda kiyoramazda kiyora conceptMazda SKYMazda SKY engineMazda SKY enginesMazdaEngineMazdaKiyoraMazdaKiyoraConceptMazdaSkyMazdaSkyEngineMazdaSkyEnginesreporttokyotokyo 2009Tokyo2009tokyomotorshowTue, 29 Sep 2009 09:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Dyson Racing debuts ethanol-biobutanol blend at Petit Le Mans]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/27/dyson-racing-debuts-ethanol-biobutanol-blend-at-petit-le-mans/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/27/dyson-racing-debuts-ethanol-biobutanol-blend-at-petit-le-mans/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/27/dyson-racing-debuts-ethanol-biobutanol-blend-at-petit-le-mans/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Dyson Racing B09/96 running at Mid-Ohio - click above for high res image gallery

When we spoke with American Le Mans Series CEO Scott Atherton at the Detroit Auto Show last January he revealed that discussions were being held between the series and parties interested in racing with a new fuel. At the time he declined to reveal the nature of the fuel but expected to announce something during the 2009 season. We're now down to the second-to-last-race of 2009 and a fourth fuel has finally arrived.

Dyson Racing's LMP2 #16 Lola-Mazda is running unclassified at this weekend's Petiti Le Mans because its fuel tank will be filled with a blend of biobutanol and ethanol. This is the first use of butanol in an ALMS car. Dyson has been working with its primary sponsor, BP, and engine supplier Mazda to develop the new fuel which is currently produced from sugar cane but can also be produced from cellulosic sources. Butanol has several advantages over ethanol including higher energy density allowing mileage and power closer to gasoline. Because it doesn't have the same tendency to absorb water that causes corrosion, it can be blended with gasoline in higher concentrations without modifying the engines. Hopefully in 2010 we'll see cars running for points fueled by butanol all season long.

Gallery: Dyson Racing Mazda-Lola at Mid-Ohio


[Source: American Le Mans Series]
All photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Dyson Racing debuts ethanol-biobutanol blend at Petit Le Mans

Dyson Racing debuts ethanol-biobutanol blend at Petit Le Mans originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 27 Sep 2009 08:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>almsamerican le mansamerican le mans ser...american le mans seriesamerican le mans series green challengeamerican lemans seriesAmericanLeMansAmericanLeMansSer...AmericanLeMansSeriesAmericanLeMansSeriesGreenChallengebiobutanolbutanolbutanolfueldysondyson racingdyson racing lola mazdaDysonRacingDysonRacingLolaMazdaethanolethanol-butanol blendEthanol-butanolBlendfalselola-mazdapetit le mansPetitLeMansSun, 27 Sep 2009 08:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Mazda MX-5 Superlight makes us wonder how we'd spend our other two wishes]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-mazda-mx-5-superlight-makes-us-wonder-how-wed-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-mazda-mx-5-superlight-makes-us-wonder-how-wed-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-mazda-mx-5-superlight-makes-us-wonder-how-wed-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Mazda MX-5 Superlight concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you're one of the many enthusiasts out there oohing and ahhing over the pair of pre-production Mini concepts that debuted in Frankfurt today, know that the BMW division isn't the only one here with a tempting speedster on display. Amidst all the exciting and pivotal new vehicle debuts at the show, Mazda took the wraps off the MX-5 Superlight Version.

Unfortunately it's just a show car, and it's not the first time Mazda's toyed with the idea (and us in the process), but the Superlight goes to show what an inventive mind and a skilled hand or two can do with the iconic Mazda roadster. Characterized by its windshield-less shape, the Superlight also features an exquisitely crafted cockpit of brushed aluminum and saddle brown leather, aluminum and carbon-fiber rolls hoops with integrated brake LEDs, an aluminum rearview mirror mounted on the hood, a wider track, dropped suspension and upgraded brakes.

While the engine essentially carries over from the stock 1.8-liter, 126hp four, the Mazdaspeed intake and exhaust, coupled with the reduced 2,194-pound curb weight, bring the 0-60 run down to 8.9 seconds. Which may not sound like breakneck acceleration, but with the wind rushing at your face, we're guessing this junior Veritas is a real thrill ride. Check it out in the gallery below.




Frankfurt 2009: Mazda MX-5 Superlight makes us wonder how we'd spend our other two wishes originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 frankfurt2009 frankfurt auto show2009 frankfurt motor show2009Frankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShow2009FrankfurtMotorShowfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowmazdamazda miatamazda mx-5mazda mx-5 miatamazda mx-5 superlightmazda mx-5 superlight conceptmazda mx-5 superlight versionmazda superlightMazdaMiataMazdaMx-5MazdaMx-5MiataMazdaMx-5SuperlightMazdaMx-5SuperlightConceptMazdaMx-5SuperlightVersionMazdaSuperlightmx-5 superlightMx-5SuperlightsuperlightTue, 15 Sep 2009 19:13:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Mazda to release new fuel efficient engine in 2011]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/21/report-mazda-to-release-new-fuel-efficient-engine-in-2011/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/21/report-mazda-to-release-new-fuel-efficient-engine-in-2011/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/21/report-mazda-to-release-new-fuel-efficient-engine-in-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mazda RX-8 R3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mazda's previously announced promise to boost the fuel efficiency of its fleet of cars and trucks by 30 percent will officially kick off in the year 2011 as the Japanese automaker releases a new series of efficient powertrains, starting with its best-selling 2.0-liter four cylinder engine. That revised powerplant will be hooked up to a new six-speed automatic transmission for even greater fuel savings, gaining 10 miles per gallon in both city (from 22 to 32 mpg) and highway (from 32 to 42 mpg).

Automotive News (sub. req'd) suggests that either the next-gen MX-5 or Mazda5 would be likely initial candidates for the new powerplant combination. Also on the way is a revised version of the long-running Wankel rotary engine, which is rumored to feature a displacement increase along with direct injection. Six-cylinder engines will continue to be sourced from Ford.

Seita Kanai, head of Mazda's eco-friendly movement, says that the 30-percent efficiency boost doesn't include advancements the automaker is making into stop/start, regenerative braking or hybrid technology. Finally, Mazda says it is studying the U.S. market to determine if there's a reason to bring diesel engines Stateside. Might we suggest a meeting of the minds with Volkswagen?



[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]

REPORT: Mazda to release new fuel efficient engine in 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 mazda2011Mazdamazdamazda 2.0mazda fuel efficiencymazda fuel mileagemazda hybridmazda hybridsmazda mileagemazda mx-5mazda rx-8mazda rx-9Mazda2.0MazdaFuelEfficiencyMazdaFuelMileageMazdaHybridMazdaHybridsMazdaMileageMazdaMx-5MazdaRx-8MazdaRx-9Fri, 21 Aug 2009 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt Preview: Mazda CX-7 to debut new diesel SCR system]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/14/frankfurt-preview-mazda-cx-7-to-debut-new-diesel-scr-system/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/14/frankfurt-preview-mazda-cx-7-to-debut-new-diesel-scr-system/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/14/frankfurt-preview-mazda-cx-7-to-debut-new-diesel-scr-system/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Mazda CX-7 MZR-CD - click above for high-res image gallery

Mazda will be showing off the newly refreshed CX-7 with the latest MZR-CD 2.2-liter diesel next month at the Frankfurt Motor Show. This will be the first Japanese brand diesel to feature an selective catalytic reduction system. Like other SCR systems, this one uses urea injection to convert NOx emissions to nitrogen and water. The AdBlue (aqueous urea solution) is stored in a tank under the rear cargo area and injected into the exhaust stream ahead of the catalytic converter.

The urea tank is sized to support service intervals of about 12,000 miles so the drive shouldn't run out of urea before regular service intervals. The CX-7 will conform to EURO-V emissions standards Unfortunately, the diesel will only be offered in the European market.

Gallery: 2010 Mazda CX-7 MZR-CD


[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Frankfurt Preview: Mazda CX-7 to debut new diesel SCR system

Frankfurt Preview: Mazda CX-7 to debut new diesel SCR system originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 14 Aug 2009 14:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showfrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowMazdamazda cxmazda cx 7mazda cx-7mazda cx-7 dieselMazdaCxMazdaCx-7MazdaCx-7DieselMazdaCx7ureaurea injectionurea-injectionUreaInjectionFri, 14 Aug 2009 14:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt Preview: Mazda MX-5 Superlight ]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/05/frankfurt-preview-mazda-mx-5-superlight/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/05/frankfurt-preview-mazda-mx-5-superlight/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/05/frankfurt-preview-mazda-mx-5-superlight/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Mazda MX-5 Superlight Show Car - Click above for high-res gallery

Mazda will display a concept version of the MX-5 Superlight at the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show that combines eco-consciousness with enhanced performance. Mazda isn't pretending we'll get to see the MX-5 Superlight on the road any time soon - they say this is "a pure show car" and you probably noticed in it doesn't have a windshield - but some of the strategies used to reduce the emissions from the car could be transferred to production versions of the MX-5, aka the Miata. Mazda has been saying for a while now that the next-gen MX-5 would be about 10 percent lighter overall, and it's likely that the refreshed 2011 model year MX-5 Miata could get a downsized gas engine, maybe with a turbocharger and direct injection. Other alternatives, like a diesel or hybrid powerplant, are not impossible but go against the lightweight ethos that the Superlight is espousing. Whatever happens with the MX-5 Miata that makes it to showroom floors, Mazda says the Superlight concept will feature "improved driving performance, handling, fuel economy and CO2 emissions." The Superlight will be unveiled in Frankfurt on September 15th. Until then, take a walk down MX-5 Miata lane here.

Gallery: Mazda MX-5 Superlight Show Car

58309maz-58309-a-maz-

[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Frankfurt Preview: Mazda MX-5 Superlight

Frankfurt Preview: Mazda MX-5 Superlight originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>falsemazda miatamazda miata superlightmazda mx-5mazda mx5 miataMazdaMiataMazdaMiataSuperlightMazdaMx-5MazdaMx5Miatamiata superlightMiataSuperlightmx-5mx-5 superlightMx-5SuperlightWed, 05 Aug 2009 10:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Does Ford's 2.0L EcoBoost four = MazdaSpeed3 four? Nope]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/does-fords-2-0l-ecoboost-four-mazdaspeed3-four-nope/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/does-fords-2-0l-ecoboost-four-mazdaspeed3-four-nope/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/does-fords-2-0l-ecoboost-four-mazdaspeed3-four-nope/#commentsFiled under: ,



After Ford VP Barb Samardzich officially announced that the 2.0-liter four cylinder EcoBoost engine that's coming next year, a correspondent for the Examiner.com postulated that this engine was in fact nothing more than a re-badged version of the 2.3-liter engine from the MazdaSpeed3. Certainly there are similarities in the specs: both have four cylinders, direct fuel injection, turbocharging, etc., and there has been plenty of collaboration between the two companies. The Mazda CX-9 even uses a version of Ford's 3.7-liter V6.

We checked with Ford and, while they have not released many details of the engine, they did provide some explanation. The EcoBoost, like other recent DuraTec-badged Ford fours, shares a block design with Mazda's similar displacement units. In fact, the EcoBoost block is the same as the Mazda L3T used in the MazdaSpeed3. However, the entire top end of the engine has been redesigned. Like the V6 EcoBoost, the four uses a new direct injection system that is presumably less expensive and allows Ford to use these engines much more widely.

The Mazda engine also requires premium fuel. All of the EcoBoost engines are designed to run on regular, although they will get a bit more power with extra octane. The EcoBoost also gets independent variable timing for each of the intake and exhaust cams.

The upshot: the two engines are built on the same foundations, but they are not the same engine.

[Sources: Ford, Examiner.com]

Does Ford's 2.0L EcoBoost four = MazdaSpeed3 four? Nope originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 19:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ecoboostecoboost 2.0ecoboost 2.0lEcoboost2.0Ecoboost2.0lfordford ecoboostford ecoboost fourFordEcoboostFordEcoboostFourmazdamazdaspeed3Fri, 24 Jul 2009 19:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Stop? Pause? A distinction without a difference with Mazda iStop]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/03/stop-pause-a-distinction-without-a-difference-with-mazda-istop/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/03/stop-pause-a-distinction-without-a-difference-with-mazda-istop/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/03/stop-pause-a-distinction-without-a-difference-with-mazda-istop/#commentsFiled under: ,


Mazda3 with i-Stop - click above for high-res image gallery

If an engine is not being fed any fuel and the crankshaft is not rotating, is it running? Of course not. But would you say it is stopped or paused? Both, it makes no difference. It's simply a semantic distinction with no difference in real meaning. Mazda has introduced a new kind of automatic start-stop system on the 2010 Mazda3 called i-Stop. Until now, such systems primarily consisted of using either a beefed up starter motor or an alternator integrated with starter motor functionality to restart the engine. These units have to be more robust in order to withstand the greater number of engine start cycles that are required compared to traditional engines.

Mazda's system takes advantage of direct injection and a crank position sensor to re-start the engine without a stronger starter. The engine is stopped/paused with one of the pistons in the middle of its power stroke. During re-start, fuel is sprayed directly into the cylinder and then ignited. The force of the expanding and combusting fuel pushes the piston down, taking the load off the starter. Thus, the engine can re-start more quickly and smoothly.
Gizmag calls this pausing the engine rather than stopping it, but Mazda never uses that term in any of its press materials. Currently the i-Stop system is not available on the U.S. market 3, but it will likely arrive eventually.

Gallery: 2010 Mazda3 i-Stop


[Sources: Gizmag, Mazda]

Continue reading Stop? Pause? A distinction without a difference with Mazda iStop

Stop? Pause? A distinction without a difference with Mazda iStop originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto start stopauto stopAutoStartStopAutoStopdirect injecteddirect injectionDirectInjectedDirectInjectioni-stopmazdamazda i-stopmazda3mazda3 i-stopMazda3I-stopMazdaI-stoppausestopFri, 03 Jul 2009 13:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Energetique and RLE bringing evMe concept to Europe ]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/18/energetique-and-rle-bringing-evme-concept-to-europe/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/18/energetique-and-rle-bringing-evme-concept-to-europe/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/18/energetique-and-rle-bringing-evme-concept-to-europe/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The Australian company behind the evMe has announced plans to expand their conversion-concept horizons to the European market. Energetique has made the trip from Down Under to Germany and signed an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with vehicle development firm RLE that will see the partnership develop an adaptable and affordable electric vehicle platform that can meet a variety of different customer needs. What that means in English is that they will take the approach used to turn the Mazda 2 into the evMe and apply it to other vehicle types for small fleet buyers with specific needs.

The original Energetique project looks like it's going well if one were to judge it by its website cover. The evMe internet home has been fully fleshed out since our last visit and now boasts plenty of pictures as well as links to its Facebook page and an electric car survey. They've also been garnering a bit of favorable Aussie press attention that's worth checking out. As far as conversions from the land of kangaroos and wallabies are concerned, we've seen worse. Official press release after the break.

[Source: Energetique]

Continue reading Energetique and RLE bringing evMe concept to Europe

Energetique and RLE bringing evMe concept to Europe originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 18 Jun 2009 18:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric conversionElectricConversionEnergetiqueevMeprofessional electric conversionProfessionalElectricConversionRLEThu, 18 Jun 2009 18:22:00 EST