Environmental protection and the reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions is a core goal for Mazda. They are committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2050 in all areas of operations. To achieve this ambitious goal, Mazda is following a comprehensive strategy called a “Multi-Solution Approach”, which holds that all available solutions must be used to reach carbon neutrality and to suit all individual mobility needs or regional conditions. This includes Mazda having all new models fully or partially electrified by 2030, while simultaneously perfecting the internal combustion engine – all in line with the company’s vision to build cars for those who love driving.

While it is tempting to look at battery electric vehicles (BEVs) as a cure-all technology, Mazda believe that only a holistic perspective will produce an accurate picture of their progress. For example, while BEVs are locally emission-free – meaning they don’t create any exhaust emissions – a look at the carbon footprint of the battery itself is also needed, as well as the type of electricity powering the cars.

This ‘well-to-wheel’ view of sustainability drives Mazda’s decisions when it comes to powertrain development, market strategies and their future line-up. Customer needs, local driving conditions and different driving scenarios all play a role too when it comes to providing the most sustainable solution – and these parameters are seldom the same the world over.

From a ‘Well-to-Wheel’ to a ‘Tank-to-Wheel’ Assessment

All this leads Mazda to adopt a Multi-Solution Approach

While not as snappy as an all-out pledge to only build BEVs, Mazda feels it does justice to the conditions (and emissions) that we find in the world today.

Put simply, Mazda is committed to improving and providing three engine types: petrol, diesel and fully electric. For their internal combustion engines (ICEs) Mazda is working to create continuously more efficient engines with their Skyactiv Technology – first introduced in 2012. At the same time, Mazda is adding various degrees of electrification that fits the needs and driving scenarios of each car.

By 2030, every new model in the Mazda line-up will feature different kinds and degrees of electrification, with 75 percent of the cars sporting electrified ICEs and BEVs making up the other 25 percent.

Additionally, Mazda is pursing the development of alternative fuels, such as e-fuels. Since it is not the engine, but the fuel the engine burns that stores and releases carbon, this would allow for internal combustion engines to become completely carbon neutral.

True to Mazda’s claim to provide the right solution for the right driving scenario and market, the have pursued varying degrees of electrification in their line-up.

First-up, the Mazda M-Hybrid system combines the highly efficient Skyactiv engine with a mild-hybrid solution that enhances fuel economy without adding much weight or the need for external charging. The 24-V battery recuperates energy generated while braking, which is then used to power the car’s electrical equipment or to add torque to support the engine.

The Mazda M-Hybrid system will debut on the MX-30 model with cutting edge style and featuring sustainable materials that reduce environmental impact - joining Mazda’s first BEV, the MX-30 Takami EV which was launched in July.

Mazda New Zealand Managing Director, David Hodge said the MX-30 Limited with the M-Hybrid system is a welcome addition to the MX-30 range offering customers a choice of a fully electric model with the right-sized battery for most kiwis, while the M-Hybrid with Skyactiv-G petrol engine is available for those seeking a longer range.

The Mazda M-Hybrid is a mild-hybrid system unique to Mazda that makes effective use of energy to support both fuel efficiency and driving performance. In addition to recycling energy usually lost during deceleration, the M-Hybrid system in MX-30 Limited helps drivability by substituting engine torque for motor torque taking both driving performance and fuel efficiency to the next level through built-in control that is always predicting energy input and output while driving to ensure the most intelligent use of energy possible when the car is starting, accelerating or coming to a stop resulting in improved fuel economy.

The MX-30 Limited e-Skyactiv G is available from all Mazda dealerships nationwide, with a RRP from $46,790 + ORC.

The MX-30 Takami EV is available from selected Mazda dealerships, with a RRP from $74,990 + ORC, which qualifies for the full $8,625 clean car rebate and includes a fast charge AC Wallbox Pulsar Plus charger (valued at $2,000; installation additional).

Here’s what the AA had to say about the new Mazda MX-30 BEV.