From the area of the Coffee Axis in Colombia, Mazda organized a driving route to learn about this technology. The CX-30 MHEV crossover was in charge of taking us through hundreds of kilometers, enjoying the hospitality of its inhabitants and beautiful landscapes. For its part, the sedan is already ready at national distributors as part of the Japanese offensive in Mexico.
mild-hybrid
The models with this type of propulsion and that are already in Mexico are the Mazda3 sedan and the CX-30 SUV. Both bear the surname MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle), which distinguishes them from the rest of their ranges. In the powertrain there is a 2-liter, 4-cylinder, SKYACTIV-G combustion engine that develops 153 horsepower and a torque of 148 lb-ft that is assisted by an ISG electric generator (Electric Motor Generator). This is powered by a 24-volt lithium-ion battery that is located in the floor of the car.
It also generates energy in the deceleration phases which it sends to the stack to be stored. The second way the set recovers electricity is through the braking system.
As occurs in other light hybrid cars, the generator cannot propel the vehicle by itself, its function is to assist it in the acceleration phase or in power demands (overshoot), provide the necessary energy for the start/stop system and feed secondary systems, such as air conditioning, while the combustion engine is off and does not emit polluting gases.
During the driving day the advantage of this system was evident. First of all, it should be mentioned that the vast majority of the time it was one-lane roads with significant slopes as well as curved areas that limited the passing areas. Therefore, when overtaking, going up a long climb or accelerating to the maximum to pass a truck before reaching the cornering area, the effectiveness of the set was perceived at the moment of full throttle. It is worth remembering that the mechanical operation is carried out automatically without the driver having to worry about issues such as recharging the battery or making the engine work. electric motor.
Plans for Mexico
In addition to the assembly of Mazda3 and Mazda CX-30 MHEV in the Salamanca plant, in GuanajuatoMiguel Barbeyto, President of Mazda de México, confirmed the brand’s plans to introduce more models, so it is a fact that the CX-50, CX-70 and CX-90 will arrive in the country. Mazda CX-50 is a crossover that began to be assembled in January of this year at the Mazda Toyota Manufacturing plant in Alabama, United States.
It is equipped with systems such as i-Activ All Wheel Drive, Mazda Intelligent Drive Select and the options of a 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G or 2.5-liter SkyActive-G engine and turbocharger. For their part, the CX-70 and CX-90 will feature the new Mazda longitudinal architecture, new engines and plug-in hybrid versions, and will be positioned within the large platform group.
Without complications. The level of equipment, the interior soundproofing, the comfort of the seats and the ease of associating mobile devices made driving more pleasant. The operation of the hybrid set goes unnoticed by the driver and passengers.
Data sheet
• Engine: 4 cyl, 2l, SkyActiv-G
• Power: 153 hp
• Torque: 148 lb-ft
• Transmission: Auto 6 speed.