Regular readers of TheGreenCarWebsite.co.uk will be familiar with the new petrol and diesel engines being introduced as part of Mazda’s SKYACTIV technology portfolio. However, as part of a media workshop the Japanese manufacturer has now offered more insight into the rest of its SKYACTIV technologies.
Among them is a SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, which combines the advantages of continuously variable, dual clutch and conventional automatic transmissions. At its heart is a newly developed six-speed torque converter with a full range lock-up clutch for all six gears that Mazda has referred to as “full range direct drive”. Thanks to the early lock-up between the engine and transmission the torque converter limits characteristic loss of power during acceleration and Mazda calculates it improves fuel economy by as much as seven per cent.
In addition, the company is introducing the SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission which will be launched in two different versions to meet engine torque requirements. The goal was to reduce weight by between seven and 16 per cent depending on the model. The transmission includes a new architecture with a shortened countershaft and no separate idling shaft in the larger model.
Meanwhile, the new SKYACTIV-Body weighs eight per cent less than its predecessor while the SKYACTIV-Chassis will be 14 per cent lighter.
Mazda has focused on a lightweight yet strong body structure that needs as many straight sections as possible. The layout has been optimised so the forces are dispersed throughout the structure while passive safety performance has been enhanced thanks to re-engineered crash zones that use multi-load paths. As for the SKYACTIV-Chassis, it achieves increased rigidity and reduced weight thanks to a newly developed suspension featuring front struts and a multi-link rear axle.
In addition, Mazda has developed a new electric power steering system to enhance the driving experience and provide immediate response to the driver from low starting speeds.
