Swift Response 1998
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 Swift Response 1998

Mazda's ultimate target is aimed at achieving an interval between design approval and the initial production of a new model of less than 15 months. In the auto industry, where user expectations are so diverse and change so rapidly, that's a tall order. Mazda continues to meet this challenge head-on with the firm intention of achieving recognition as one of the most nimble and responsive automobile manufacturers in the world.

   Spearheading Mazda's drive to ultra-efficiency is a system known as Mazda Digital Innovation (MDI), which incorporates state-of-the-art information technology and facilities designed to completely renovate all processes, from initial new vehicle planning through development, production engineering, testing and purchasing to actual production. The people at Mazda are integrating their accumulated expertise into this advanced interactive interface to combine human judgement and skill with digital precision.

Swift Response

Designers and engineers are incorporating their knowledge and expertise
toward Phase II Implementation of the advanced MDI system.

   Following a successful trial run with the Demio, launched in 1996, MDI was expanded to include the Capella, Roadster and Familia. Phase II, begun in April 1998, entails full-scale promotion of MDI for those models for which development was initiated at or after this period. To further enhance the development function, the 3-D CAD system will solely utilize I-DEAS MS software starting Spring 1999.    Mazda's capital investment in Phase I was ¥18.0 billion; Phase II will amount to an additional investment of ¥5.5 billion. Targeted returns from MDI, as a whole, include a 30% reduction in R&D staff time, a 20% cut in prototype manufacturing expenses, a reduction of 30% in staff time for mass production preparation and a 40% cut in machine tool manufacturing expenses. As a consequence, customers will be offered best-in-class quality and value for the money.

   The complex challenge of seeking superior levels of efficiency in vehicle development and production processes is heightened by the manufacturer's responsibility to ensure that products are as environment-friendly and safe as possible.

   We believe that further improvement of mass-produced engines will have the largest impact on the environment and are making continuous efforts in this area. Mazda has developed and marketed the Miller Cycle engine and D-burn (diluted burn) engine. During fiscal 1998, Mazda developed a new three-way catalyst for gasoline engines with improved capability to purify pollutants in exhaust emissions. Mazda has also advanced direct-injection technology in both gasoline engines and diesel engines and launched models equipped with direct-injection turbo diesel engines in Summer 1998.

   Another focus is the continuing development of a fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV), which was exhibited in a Demio model at "Eco-Japan '97" last December. The FCEV generates electricity through an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen and produces no CO2 or NOx emissions.

   In April 1998, Mazda joined a new alliance with Ford, Daimler-Benz and Ballard Power Systems aimed at commercial production of fuel cells and fuel-cell-powered drivetrains in the beginning of the 21st century.

   Mazda issued a "Voluntary Action Plan for Recycling Promotion" in February 1998 targeting the improvement of the recyclability of new vehicles, with a view to achieving a recyclable rate of over 90% for new models introduced after 2002. The new guidelines include the nationwide collection of scrap bumpers in Japan from Spring 2000; a halving of lead usage in vehicles, excluding batteries, compared to 1996 levels, beginning with new models introduced after the end of 2000; and the introduction of a new onboard system designed to activate unused airbags before recycling, starting with new models introduced after 1999.
 


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