Mazda Launches Push for Next-Generation Green Powertrains

Mazda Motor Corp. plans to spend 300 billion yen ($2.9 billion) over the next three fiscal years to leverage its SkyActiv fuel-efficient engine technologies.

President Masamichi Kogai tells The Nikkei the company aims to develop next-generation engines and lighter cars to meet future fuel economy standards that take effect in the U.S. four years from now.

The Tokyo-based newspaper notes that Mazda's 100 billion-yen annual R&D spending plan is about 10% higher than its previous three-year average. That makes it approximately equal to the company's budget to develop its SkyActiv system.

Kogai declares that "all options will be considered" to further increase fuel economy. The Nikkei says he indicates an interest in developing a plug-in hybrid powertrain based on technology from Toyota Motor Corp., its partner in hybrid vehicles.