Mazda News: As the Diesel Emits: Mazda Still Committed To Diesel, Expects Delays Due To Volkswagen Scandal

[William Maley]

One of the big unknowns in recent automotive history is the status of the Mazda Skyactiv-D engine. First shown in 2011, Mazda said it would be going into production in a couple of years time. Then the delays started to pop up with Mazda stating it wanted to get "the right balance between fuel economy and Mazda-appropriate driving performance."

 

Now with the Volkswagen diesel scandal taking the spotlight, many are wondering what is the fate of Mazda's diesel engine. Our last report earlier this month had a comment from Mazda saying they are still at work on the engine, but no timeline could be given as for when it would be launched.

 

Reuters spoke with Kiyoshi Fujiwara, a Mazda managing executive officer in charge of research and development and cost innovation at the Tokyo Motor Show. Fujiwara explained the company was still committed to launching the diesel engine in the U.S., but there would be a delay as to when the engine goes on sale.

 

The tougher testing, Fujiwara explained "will cause a delay in plans for everybody looking to sell diesel cars in the U.S. market. That's why we cannot say when we are going to be able to launch our diesel cars in the U.S. market at this point."

 

Source: Reuters

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