What exactly is SKYACTIV? If you read Mazda’s detailed explanations, it is easy to get lost in the technical and engineering terminology, but in actuality, SKYACTIV is much easier to understand than say, hybrid technology for example.
That’s because at its core, SKYACTIV uses mechanical components that we all know such as traditional combustion engines, 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions, and chassis. There are no electric engines or complicated CVT transmissions, and the materials used in the creation of the chassis are advanced, but not exotic. No expensive carbon fiber or aluminium is used.
In essence, the goal behind SKYACTIV technology was to improve the elements that make a car move forward. Mazda has always been known for offering vehicles that are fun to drive, dynamic, and generally sportier than their rivals. However, previous models were not known for their fuel economy. So, Mazda went back to the drawing board to see how they could improve fuel efficiency without taking anything away from the driving experience.
They looked at how they could improve their engines, transmissions and chassis. Two main elements were inspected and improved: weight and efficiency. The heavier the engine, chassis and transmission are, the more fuel will be required. So, by reducing weight, you can achieve the more performance for every drop of fuel used. By improving efficiency, which means for example reducing internal friction of the various mechanical components and allowing air to move more freely inside the engine, you reduce the amount of fuel that is wasted.
In essence, Mazda looked at how it could take run-of-the-mill engines, transmissions, as well as the chassis, and make everything work better. SKYACTIV did not reinvent the wheel, it simply made sure everything worked more efficiently with minimum wastage.
