Mazda talks up fleet-boosting SKYACTIV technology
Mazda are hoping to bring lower fuel bills, tax savings and slimmer whole life costs to fleets next year with the launch of its SKYACTIV technology.
The breakthrough technology claims to cut fuel consumption by between 15-20% and many expect Mazda’s fleet sales to see a huge boost as a result of its introduction.
A lighter overall vehicle weight, improved model aerodynamics and transmission, and a revised chassis are all qualities said to have been implemented in its development.
Safety has also been improved with the new chassis achieving outstanding crash safety performance thanks in part to being 100kg lighter.
Research by Mazda suggests that a tenth of all cars sold in 2020 will be 100% electric and SKYACTIV is one of Mazda’s steps in mirroring that trend, said Christian Blank, Director of Mazda’s European Fleet Operations (pictured).
“We believe that the strategy we are pursuing is the right one,” he commented, “first launching breakthrough technologies for gasoline and diesel engines while continuing to work on hybrid and electric vehicles as well as hydrogen-powered models.”
Martin Ward of automotive information provider CAP has tested four different SKYACTIV cars and believes Mazda has a winner on its hands.
“They have proved beyond any doubt just how good SKYACTIV is, especially the diesel automatic,” he revealed.
“It is a brilliant piece of engineering. The technology should help Mazda in its quest to improve fleet sales. Mazda is definitely a brand to watch.”
Fleet decision-makers and company car drivers will be able to see the technology in the flesh during next month’s Frankfurt Motor Show or if Deutschland isn’t an option, SKYACTIV is expected to hit the market – most likely in the CX-5 – at the start of 2012.
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