Strong demand for its new generation SkyActiv models has prompted Mazda Motor Corporation to boost SkyActiv engine production capacity at its Hiroshima plant by a quarter.
When completed by the end of 2014, the expansion from 800,000 units to 1 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.
Expanding production is a key part of Mazda's goal to increase global sales by 2016 to 1.7 million vehicles - out of which up to 80 percent are expected to feature SkyActiv technology.
Beyond Hiroshima, SkyActiv engines are currently manufactured at Changan Ford Mazda Engine Co. in China, since June 2013. Additionally the widely acclaimed power unit 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, which ends in March 2014.
When completed by the end of 2014, the expansion from 800,000 units to 1 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.
Expanding production is a key part of Mazda's goal to increase global sales by 2016 to 1.7 million vehicles - out of which up to 80 percent are expected to feature SkyActiv technology.
Beyond Hiroshima, SkyActiv engines are currently manufactured at Changan Ford Mazda Engine Co. in China, since June 2013. Additionally the widely acclaimed power unit 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, which ends in March 2014.
