Mazda to Launch Customized Versions of CX-5, Mazda3, RX-8, MX-5 et al at Tokyo Auto Salon

It may not have the same international flavor as the Tokyo Motor Show, but the Tokyo Auto Salon, which will take place in Chiba, Japan, from January 13 to 15, is nevertheless an event that will draw the attention of all Japanese car manufacturers.
Mazda was the first to announce its line-up for the auto salon, led by the new CX-5 that will be launched in Japan next spring. The new compact-size crossover will be shown in two versions: the standard model, and a customized special edition sporting red bodywork color, matte-black alloy wheels and a slightly lower ride height.
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Nissan Rebadges Mazda5 MPV for Japan, Calls it the New Lafesta Highway Star

After preparing its customers with an announcement in January, Nissan today went ahead and introduced a re-badged version of the Mazda5 MPV (called Premacy in its home market) in the form of the new Lafesta Highway Star. The compact minivan is supplied to Nissan by Mazda on an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) basis, and will be sold exclusively in Japan. Read more »

Nissan to Sell Rebadged Mazda5 MPV in Japan

Nissan and Mazda said Friday that they are expanding their original equipment manufacturing (OEM) projects to include the Mazda Premacy, otherwise known as the Mazda5 MPV in markets such as North America and Europe. Under the agreement, Mazda will supply a "clearly differentiated version" of the Premacy to Nissan for sale in Japan, starting from May this year, the two companies said in a joint statement.

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Mazda Begins Commercial Leasing of Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid

As of today, Mazda is the world's first automaker to begin commercial leasing of a hydrogen-hybrid vehicle. The new Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid will be delivered to local government authorities and energy-related companies in Japan during 2009. Based on the Japanese market Premacy, the vehicle is equipped with a series-type hybrid drivetrain that combines Mazda's hydrogen rotary engine with an electric motor.

As with the Chevy Volt, the rotary-engine output is converted to electricity, which then powers the electric motor that drives the wheels. This hybrid system boosts the hydrogen fuel range of the Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid to 200km (124 miles) which is twice the range of the firm's first commercial hydrogen rotary engine model, the RX-8 Hydrogen RE. Furthermore, the hybrid powertrain helps increases the maximum output by approximately 40 percent, to 110 kilowatts (147hp).

Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid Specifications

Base model:	Mazda Premacy
Overall length:	4,565mm
Overall width:	1,745mm
Overall height:	1,620 mm
Engine:	Mazda's hydrogen rotary engine (with dual-fuel system)
Motor:	Alternating current synchronous motor
Maximum output:	110 kW
Generator:	Alternating current synchronous generator
Battery:	Lithium-ion (Li-ion)
Seating capacity:	Five
Fuel:	Hydrogen and gasoline
Hydrogen tank:	35 MPa high-pressure tank

Mazda Premacy Hydrogen Rotary Engine –Tokyo Show Preview

Along with the Taiki Sports Coupe Concept (see here), Mazda will also take the wraps off the Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid at the Tokyo Show (Oct. 24). The vehicle’s rotary engine is powered by energy produced when hydrogen combines with oxygen in the air to emit only clean water. However, thanks to Mazda’s hydrogen/gasoline dual-fuel system, the driver can switch to gas when hydrogen runs out. The hybrid system employed for the hydrogen rotary engine converts energy from hydrogen combustion into electricity that powers the electric motor. Mazda officials support that, compared to the RX-8 Hydrogen RE, the new Premacy doubles its run on a full tank of hydrogen from 100 km (62 miles) to 200 km (124 miles). According to the Japanese carmaker, the 5-seater Premacy will be available for lease solely in Japan from early 2008. -Press release after the jump

New Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid

Compared with the Mazda RX-8 Hydrogen RE, the new Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid yields 40% better output, resulting in enhanced acceleration performance and an extended hydrogen-fueled range of about 200km, or twice that of the RX-8 Hydrogen RE. Seating capacity is also increased to give accommodation for five adults along with greater luggage space. The hydrogen rotary engine is changed from a longitudinal to a transverse layout and its intake/exhaust resistance and combustion efficiency are improved to yield high output across a wide range of engine speeds. The hybrid system employed for the hydrogen rotary engine efficiently converts energy from hydrogen combustion into electricity that powers the electric motor. Thanks to progress in electric drive technology, the system realizes high energy-efficiency and a quick response allied with low fuel consumption. Acceleration kicks in the instant you hit the accelerator, creating a direct feeling of power.