Mazda to invest more R&D into development of hybrid, will produce hybrids in 2013

According to a report by Japan’s Nikkei business daily, Mazda will start allocating a larger portion of its R&D to the development of hybrid and other fuel-efficient vehicles. The move will increase the ratio from just above 20 percent in fiscal 2010 to around 40 percent in fiscal 2015, the report said.

During the current fiscal year, Mazda earmarked 100 billion yen for group R&D spending, which is up from 15 billion yen in fiscal 2009. The Japanese automaker is expected to spend an average of 100 billion yen on R&D each year through fiscal 2015.

Mazda also has plans to improve the efficiency of its gasoline-powered vehicles. Compact SUVs with a new engine are expected to be 10 percent more efficient than exiting models.

As early as 2013, Mazda plans to start producing and selling hybrid vehicles.

– By: Omar Rana

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)