BOOST: Mazda to pump out one million units a year
Strong demand for new-generation SKYACTIV models has prompted Mazda to boost engine production capacity at their Hiroshima plant by 25%.
When completed by the end of 2014, the expansion from 800,000 units to one million annually will also make the facility more flexible.
As part of the move, Mazda will install a new and highly versatile engine machining line at the plant.
In addition, an existing line used to assemble MZR engines will be overhauled to also enable the production of SKYACTIV engines.
Mazda offer a line-up of four-cylinder SKYACTIV-G petrol engines and SKYACTIV-D clean diesels.
Expanding production is a key part of Mazda’s goal to increase global sales by 2016 to 1.7million vehicles, some 80% of which are expected to feature SKYACTIV technology.
Beyond Hiroshima, SKYACTIV engines are currently manufactured at Changan Ford Mazda Engine Co. in China, where production began in June 2013.
They will also be produced in Mexico at Mazda Motor Manufacturing de Mexico S.A. de C.V. starting in the fourth quarter of the current fiscal year.
