There is more to reducing emissions than simply switching over to battery electric vehicles. If the electrical energy used to charge these cars is not produced sustainably then the emissions are merely moved to power stations.
That’s why Mazda offers a multi-solution approach, providing a range of efficient internal combustion, hybrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and electric cars (BEVs) to suit customers’ needs and the power-generation situations across the world.
For example, regions with strong capabilities in clean power generation can promote BEVs and PHEVs to reduce CO₂ emissions.
However, for regions reliant on fossil fuel power generation, simply promoting electrification is insufficient. Efforts are needed to minimize CO₂ emissions through a combination of continued internal combustion engine innovation and electrification technology, while simultaneously transitioning to carbon-neutral fuels.
Therefore, Mazda believes that achieving long-term CO₂ reduction targets will require not only “the innovation of internal combustion engine” which are still expected to remain significant volume in the future and “adding multiple electrification technologies” but also the widespread adoption of carbon-neutral renewable liquid fuels. For the CO₂ that inevitably remains, Mazda envisions a future where the CO₂ is captured by carbon capture technology and ultimately achieve carbon negativity.
Mazda utilizes autonomous driving technologies as advanced driver assistance system to invigorate drivers, provide peace of mind, and enable them to enjoy the pleasure of driving.
For example, if you have an elderly family member and needs to go somewhere, using an autonomous vehicle or getting a ride from family is certainly a good option.
But perhaps even better is the elderly person driving safely themselves, and along the way, picking up a neighbor who's less mobile and taking them along. Furthermore, stopping to chat with neighborhood children or enjoying lively conversation in the car could certainly contribute to the elderly person's “vibrant life.”
No matter how much autonomous driving technology advances, Mazda believes it is important for the future to preserve the joy of driving—driving by one's own will, cherishing human connections. For instance, many elderly individuals consider surrendering their driving licenses, and their families worry about their driving. However, a study shows that stopping driving doubles the risk of requiring long-term care. Mazda wants to alleviate the anxieties of these individuals, enabling them to continue driving as before and allowing their families to send them off with a smile, saying “Have a safe trip.”
One technology developed for this purpose is the Driver Emergency Assist system(*1), introduced in 2022. Utilizing autonomous driving technology, if the driver‘s condition becomes abnormal, the vehicle will automatically slow down gradually, come to a stop, and make an emergency call(*2).
Mazda believes that eliminating the worry of “what if something happens...” will invigorate the individual themselves. Seeing this, their family and those involved in their lives will surely be invigorated too. Furthermore, Mazda believes this extends beyond the elderly to people of all ages, and even contributes to the safety and peace of mind of others walking or cycling around the vehicle.
(*1) Mazda uses names such as Driver Emergency Assist (DEA) or Cruising and Traffic Support - Risk Mitigation Function (CTS-RMF) due to differences in functions and specifications. This system is based on an assumption that a driver is responsible for safe driving. It is intended to reduce damage caused by accidents and physical burden on driving. The system is started under certain conditions, and functions are restrictive in nature. Drivers are strongly encouraged to drive safely without overreliance on the system. This system is not intended to aid sleep driving and driving under deteriorated physical conditions.
(*2) Emergency call by automated connection requires a connected service contract.
A technology that monitors the driver's condition anytime anywhere. Mazda calls this advanced driver assistance technology concept, which aims to reduce risks by detecting human conditions, the MAZDA CO-PILOT CONCEPT. In the event of an emergency, the car will alert, automatically stop or make an emergency call, before the car is in danger. This provides peace of mind not only to the drivers but also to their family and those around them[*1].
To prevent accidents, it will alert the driver and accelerate the activation of the Emergency Dirving Stopping System(EDSS). The driver's distraction, drowsiness, closed eyes, and posture loss are detected by an in-vehicle camera[*1].
Example of DM in action [*1]
True to its name, Driver Monitoring (DM) keeps attentive eyes on the driver. When the system detects inattentive driving behavior, an alert is sent to remind the driver of driving risks. If the driver’s fatigue or drowsiness is detected, the system prompts the driver to take a break.
The system uses driver monitoring camera system to detect any changes in the driver’s characteristic facial features and makes a presumption on potential fatigue and drowsiness. The system displays messages on Multi-information Display, and makes an alert noise to encourage the driver to take a break.
Once the driver’s inability to drive is detected, such as falling asleep or a rapid deterioration of physical conditions, the system connects with EDSS to support prevention of potential accidents and minimize damage.
Detection of Driver Signs of Abnormalities and Inattentiveness [*1]
Driver’s abnormal signs detection technology (future technology)
By detecting early signs of driver’s abnormality, before the driver becomes incapable of driving, Mazda aims to further reduce risks of causing accident and to better secure safety of the driver and the vehicle, as well as other cars and pedestrians on the road.
Example of gaze anomaly detection by saliency map
The human gaze behavior is categorized into “conscious behavior” and “unconscious behavior.” Conscious behavior involves looking at potential danger, and intentionally checking mirrors and gauges. Conversely, unconscious behavior involves passively called to attention, such as looking at something that is visually salient. Under normal circumstances, the driver balances these two behaviors when moving his/her gaze. But when the driver begins to undergo cerebral dysfunction, the gaze is biased toward areas and subjects that attract passive attention.
Using neuroscientific knowledge and insights, Mazda has been conducting research and study for detecting the state of cerebral dysfunction. An algorithm for real-time identification of subjects that are most likely to attract the driver’s gaze during driving was developed, to assist development of technology that can detect characteristic changes under regular circumstances and at cerebral dysfunction, and spot early signs of the driver’s abnormalities.
When the driver is detected as unable to drive safely due to a sudden change in physical condition, EDSS automatically slows down and stops the vehicle while notifying the surroundings of abnormalities with hazard lamps with horn sound, to avoid accidents and reduce damage[*1][*2].
EDSS in action (Japanese language video) (duration: 3 min. 16 sec.)
Example of EDSS in action [*1][*2]
STEP 1,2
DEA monitors the driver’s conditions. Once abnormality is detected, the system starts to flash hazard warning lights to let passengers know that the vehicle will come into an emergency stop.
STEP 3
If the driver is deemed no longer capable of driving, the system starts flashing brake lights and beeping the horn in addition to flashing hazard lights to let other drivers and pedestrians on the road know of the emergency. The vehicle is decelerated and stopped.
STEP 4
The system automatically makes an emergency call to an external emergency report system as necessary. [*3]
After the vehicle is stopped, the system unlocks the doors and automatically calls the outside if necessary, leading to early rescue and life-saving for the driver [*1][*3].
[*1] The functions and specifications may differ depends on products or markets.
[*2] Mazda uses names such as Driver Emergency Assist (DEA) or Cruising and Traffic Support - Risk Mitigation Function (CTS-RMF) due to differences in functions and specifications in each market. This system is based on an assumption that a driver is responsible for safe driving. It is intended to reduce damage caused by accidents and physical burden on driving. The system is started under certain conditions, and functions are restrictive in nature. Drivers are strongly encouraged to drive safely without overreliance on the system. This system is not intended to aid sleep driving and driving under deteriorated physical conditions.
[*3] Emergency call by automated connection requires a connected service contract.
This technology is essential for providing everyday safety. This enables the driver to enjoy and concentrate on the driving, and will support less fatigue and your desire to go far away.
The driving position is configured to keep your joints at a natural angle, making you more comfortable on long journeys and enabling you to be more agile in an emergency.
Displays are laid out according to the type of information, preventing distractions and allowing the driver to concentrate on driving with less fatigue. Information that the driver sees more frequently is laid out in the area by driver's smaller movement.
Mazda vehicles use an "organ-type" accelerator pedal that links the movement of the foot with that of the pedal, unlike a "suspended-type" pedal used by many cars. This reduces the fatigue of the driver's legs when driving long distances.
This technology supports the driver and reduces the risk of collision. Various safety equipment assists keeping the vehicle away from dangers.
The combination of sensors such as cameras and sonar promotes the driver's awareness of danger. In danger situations, the system notifies the driver with an audible warning, display, and steering wheel vibration.
Image of sensor detection
Mazda uses superior safety technologies, such as a 360-degree view monitor, to ensure the driver's view and help the driving with confidence.
360-dgree view monitor see-through view
Mazda's Smart Brake Support (SBS) uses camera and radar sensors to detect the risk of a collision with the vehicle in front. If a collision cannot be avoided, the Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) system is activated to reduce the damage.
Image of SBS
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) to follow the preceding vehicle and Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) to follow the road prevent accidents and reduce risks. They also reduce fatigue during long-distance driving [*1].
Image of MRCC/CTS
[*1] Mazda calls ACC and LKA, Mazda Rader Cruise Control (MRCC) and Cruising & Traffic Support(CTS), respectively.
※ Each system is started under certain conditions, and functions are restrictive in nature. Drivers are
strongly encouraged to drive safely without overreliance on the system.
Mazda has achieved a high level of safety performance that minimizes damage for the risk of an accident.
In the event of an unavoidable accident for the driver, the vehicle structure is designed to minimize damage to the occupants. The car body collapses while absorbing shock, suppressing the deformation of the passenger compartment.
SRS[*1] airbags have long been a crucial part of crash protection. MAZDA uses driver and passenger airbags, plus multiple airbags to protect all occupants.
The seat belt supports the occupant at the optimal angle[*2], even if the seat is moved backward and forward. Regardless of the size of the occupants, it provides high safety performance for everyone.
Mazda has earned high evaluations for its safety technologies.
[*1] Supplemental Restraint System
[*2] The lap anchor of front seat belt is fixed not on the vehicle but on each seat (Mazda3 (2019) and after).
Mazda provides powertrain (the power source of the car) that responds perfectly to the driver's controls, makes the drivers feel like they have become better at driving, and feel comfortable while driving.
In order to meet the energy supply situation of each region/country and the needs of customers[*1], Mazda delivers products supporting driving pleasure and excellent contribution to the environment[*2], combining engines/motors/transmissions of new technology and their control technologies.
(*) The term Skyactiv Technology covers all Mazda's innovative technologies. They were born by choosing the big challenge of returning to the basics of the car and rebuilding everything from scratch in order to create the world's best car.
[*1] If the electricity generated in your region is low-emission, a battery electric car may well make sense. However, if where you live relies largely on fossil fuels to generate electricity then charging an electric car will still create carbon emissions. In that case, a fuel-efficient combustion-powered or hybrid vehicle may well be a better choice.
[*2] Example of powertrain technologies
SKYACTIV-G, D: Gasoline and diesel engines in pursuit of ultimate combustion
SKYACTIV-X: High-performance gasoline engines that combine the best aspects of gasoline and diesel engines
e-SKYACTIV PHEV: Plug-in hybrid system equipped with a SKYACTIV engine
e-SKYACTIV R-EV: Plug-in hybrid system equipped with a rotary engine
e-SKYACTIV EV: Electric vehicles (electrification technology that can run on electirc power alone)
For the happiness of being able to drive and move as one pleases, Mazda provides cars that are pleasant to drive and that all occupants can enjoy the "joy of driving" with less tiring and less car sickness.
The vehicle architecture incorporates a mechanism that maximizes the balancing capabilities of human body. Even on bumps and curves, the car movement is transmitted without delay but gently, so that all occupants can unconsciously and naturally balance and reduce shaking and fatigue.
As for vehicle dynamics, the output of the engine and motor, as well as the braking force, are integrated and precisely controlled according to steering operation. This smooths out changes in the force to the occupants and stabilizes the posture of the car.
With such technologies[*1], Mazda vehicles provide a straightforward feel that allows the drivers to feel the car as if it were a part of their body, as well as a high level of reassuring feeling of control and sickness resistance due to less shaking for all occupants.
(*) The term Skyactiv Technology covers all Mazda's innovative technologies. They were born by choosing the big challenge of returning to the basics of the car and rebuilding everything from scratch in order to create the world's best car.
[*1] Mazda continues to evolve these vehicle architecture and dynamics technologies, calling them Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture and Skyactiv-Vehicle Dynamics, respectively.
Significantly Improved Dynamic Performance
For a platform characterized by a longitudinal engine layout and rear wheel drive-based AWD, an ideal front-rear weight distribution was achieved to equalize weight on each tire. Together with fine handling and enhanced stability, driving dynamics was greatly improved by combining AWD with rear wheel drive.
Engine/Motor/Transmission Mounted on the Same Axis
Placement of engine, motor and transmission on the same axis contributed to efficient development of diverse powertrain combinations. The platform is also leveraged to provide multiple solutions that address energy situations in each country and region, as well as local/regional customer needs.
Easy Maneuverability Without Feeling the Vehicle's Size
Because the engine is mounted longitudinally, the tire angle changes significantly when the steering wheel is turned fully. This results in a smaller minimum turning radius compared to similarly sized front-engine, front-wheel-drive (FF) vehicles with a transverse engine layout, making maneuvering in tight spaces easier.
8-Speed AT Without Torque Converter
Using a mechanical clutch mechanism, typically used in manual transmission, instead hydraulic torque converter resulted in direct start response, highly-responsive and smooth shift change performance, and light-footed, rhythmical driving that feels comfortable to human senses. Exhilarating driving and enhanced environmental performance were realized by approximately 22% reduction of transmission resistance against the previous model.
Effective Use of Regenerative Energy
48V mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid are designed as a scalable system. Detaching the engine and motor/generator enabled use of efficiently recovered energy to assist acceleration and shift change. The result is improved environmental performance, quicker acceleration response and responsive shift change.
Clean, High Efficiency, High Output Diesel Engine
Mazda’s pursuit of ideal combustion and increase of engine displacement realized a clean, highly efficient and high-output Skyactiv-D 3.3-liter straight-six engine. Use of a stepped egg-shaped combustion chamber and a high-pressure fuel injection for Distribution-Controlled Partially Premixed Compression Ignition (DCPCI), as well as large engine displacement, worked to achieve more than 40% thermal efficiency in considerable part of the practical operating range. In addition, reduction in fuel consumption and NOx emission was achieved in all areas, and the quality of driving was enhanced by improving engine torque.
Presentation in the Large Product Technology Forum (2022) - 1 Strategy (duration: 10 min. 29 sec.)
Presentation in the Large Product Technology Forum (2022) - 2 Powertrain (duration: 11 min. 17 sec.)
Presentation in the Large Product Technology Forum (2022) - 3 Platform (duration: 12 min. 21 sec.)
Mazda provides customers with beauty and comfort while considering resource circulation through sustainable materials that contribute to design, functionality, and reduced environmental impact.
From Oyster Shells to Car Components：How Hiroshima’s oyster shells became a part of the Mazda Iconic SP
(Japanese language video) (duration: 8 min. 54 sec.)
Mazda's recycling origins that anticipated the times. Overcoming technological barriers with all of Hiroshima - Challenge to CN Series vol.5 (Japanese language video) (duration: 10 min. 40 sec.)
Mazda's Aqua-tech Paint System introduced globally in 2016, uses a three-layer water-based paint system. It has reduced volatile organic compound emissions by 78% compared to the older oil-based paints. Carbon dioxide emissions are also down by more than 15% thanks to energy-saving air conditioning and infra-red heating system to finish the paint.
In addition, combined with VOC recovery technology, this achieves zero exhaust emissions from the paint drying furnace.
These technologies have been not only highly regarded for their consideration of the global environment, but have also delighted many customers for years as technologies achieving higher-quality finish essential to Mazda's attractive designs.
Reducing CO₂ in Car Production: High School Students Ask Mazda (Japanese language video)
(duration: 10 min. 43sec.)
(*) A system that uses fuel to drive gas turbines or gas engines, continuously extracting multiple forms of secondary energy.
(electricity, steam, etc.).
Mazda is engaged in research, development, and demonstration experiments of various technologies aimed at achieving CN.
・Research and development of microalgae (such as Nannochloropsis) that efficiently absorb CO₂, including genome editing in collaboration with universities
・Research on cultivating microalgae using factory wastewater
・Demonstration experiments to build a value chain for producing CN fuel from microalgae and used cooking oil, extending to supply and utilization
・Research, development, and demonstration experiments for gasoline/diesel engine vehicles running solely on CN fuel
・Research and development of devices and systems to capture CO₂ emitted from vehicles
・Research and development on generating high-value-added materials through decomposition and synthesis of captured CO₂
Can cars be truly eco-friendly: high school students ask Mazda - Could minuscule algae achieve carbon neutrality? (Japanese language video) (duration: 10 min.)
[Mazda documentary] Creating a Positive Future for Combustion Engine Cars: Engineers’ Challenge for Carbon Neutral Combustion Engine Car (duration: 10 min. 28 sec.)
Mazda believes that achieving a world without accidents requires not only enhancing vehicle safety performance, but also initiatives focused on people, roads, and infrastructure. Mazda raises awareness through various events and collaborates with local governments and other companies to promote road and infrastructure improvements.
For raising awareness among people, Mazda provides customers to experience firsthand the latest vehicle safety support features at various events. These include devices that detect driver abnormalities and systems that compensate for blind spots. By encouraging customers to use these features more conveniently and appropriately, Mazda aims to raise awareness among both drivers and those around them, striving to reduce accidents.
For road and infrastructure improvements, Mazda is working with the local government, neighborhood associations, and related companies in Miyoshi City, Hiroshima Prefecture—where Mazda's test facility is located—to create systems that support safer driving for elderly drivers.
We installed vehicle behavior measurement devices in private cars to collect driving data from elderly drivers. This enabled us to create a “Traffic Safety Map” (*) that highlights local danger spots, such as locations with frequent sudden braking incidents. Moving forward, we plan to advance activities that integrate vehicles, people, roads, and infrastructure.
Through such initiatives, Mazda aims to realize a car society where anyone can move freely, safely, and securely anytime, anywhere, leading to a more fulfilling life.
(*)This initiative was undertaken as part of the activities of the “Tateshina Conference,” in which Mazda also participates. The conference utilizes the annual opportunity provided by the Tateshina-san Seikōji Summer Festival, where prayers for traffic safety are offered, to bring together top executives from the automotive and related industries. It works toward the goal of “accelerating the realization of zero traffic fatalities and injuries” by collaborating with the government, local authorities, and related organizations from three perspectives: vehicles, people, and traffic infrastructure (“trinity”).
