Magna Unveils Super-Green Mini MPV Concept

Magna International Inc. says its MILA Blue concept vehicle weighs 300 kg (661 lbs) less than a conventionally built A-segment vehicle and emits as little as 36 grams per kilometer of carbon dioxide.

The Canadian company will present the natural gas-powered vehicle next week at the Geneva auto show.

The MILA Blue uses three strategies to cut weight. First, it replaces many traditional steel parts with those made of aluminum, composites and magnesium. Second, it leverages lower weight by using lighter components that deliver the necessary function and performance.

Finally, the concept four-seater features several interior structural components designed to present surfaces attractive enough to eliminate the need for plastic trim to cover them.

The vehicle is equipped with a hybrid powertrain that includes a piston engine built to burn compressed natural gas. Magna says the system emits 49 g/km of CO₂ when consuming fossil-derived natural gas and 36 g/km if fueled with biogas. The car is light enough that its belt-driven, 12-volt starter/generator can move the vehicle electrically in stop-and-go traffic at speeds as high as 30 kph (19 mph).