Mazda claims its new i-ELOOP regenerative braking system delivers fuel consumption improvements up to 10 per cent.
Due for introduction in new Mazda passenger cars from next year, Mazda says the new system debuts world-first technology by using as capacitor to save electricity produced during deceleration. Unlike conventional batteries, a capacitor is able to store large volumes of electrical energy, can be rapidly charged and discharged and its performance doesn’t deteriorate over time.
Of course, using this stored electrical energy to power electrical components like the car’s climate control and audio systems means the conventional engine is not wasting fuel to provide their power source. Unlike hybrid vehicles, Mazda’s regenerative braking system does not require a dedicated electric motor and battery and with, its ability to store large volumes of electrical energy, extends the duration of engine shut-off in vehicles equipped with Mazda’s auto start-stop system called ‘i-stop’
Mazda says i-ELOOP is an adaptation of ‘Intelligent Energy Loop’.
Look for the new i-ELOOP system to be included in Mazda’s Takeri concept mid-size sedan at next week’s Tokyo Motor Show.
