Mazda will roll-out a new midsize sedan concept at the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show next month. The company will showcase its first regenerative braking system as part of the world premiere of the Mazda TAKERI, which is also equipped with a SKYACTIV-D diesel engine and an i-stop idling stop system.
Like the new Mazda CX-5 SUV (which was shown in Frankfurt this year but will make its Japanese debut at the Show), the TAKERI is based of Mazda's new "KODO - Soul of Motion" design language - meaning that we'll likely see styling elements of the TAKERI appear in production models down the track.
The appearance of Mazda's first regenerative braking system is notable because this car isn't a hybrid - it runs on a diesel engine. Like conventional hybrid systems, kinetic energy is captured and stored during braking, but in this case, rather than being fed back to an electric motor, the energy is stored in a capacitor and used to power the vehicle's electric equipment. This reduces engine load and results in excellent fuel economy according to Mazda.
As mentioned, the new Mazda CX-5 will also take to the stage with its full range of SKYACTIV technology. SKYACTIV is the blanket term Mazda uses to describe its next-generation technologies including two gasoline engines (1.3 and 2.0 liter), a 2.2 liter diesel engine (found on the CX-5), plus new transmissions, body and chassis.
There's no further details on the TAKERI at this stage but stay tuned - we'll be taking a closer look when doors open at the 2011 Tokyo Show.
