Mazda i-ELOOP

Mazda has taken the next vital step in improving the overall fuel efficiency of their vehicles with the introduction of i-ELOOP, the world’s first regenerative braking system for passenger vehicles that uses a capacitor.

This innovation by the Japanese automaker is said to improve real-world fuel economy by approximately 10%. It will debut in the Mazda TAKERI concept at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show before appearing in production models next year.

Photo: Mazda

Much like any other regenerative braking system, i-ELOOP captures kinetic energy as the vehicle decelerates and uses the converted power to reduce the load on the gas engine. However, unlike hybrid and electric vehicles, it does so through a double-layer capacitor instead of an electric motor and dedicated battery.

The capacitor can be charged and drained within seconds and resists deterioration through prolonged use – a major advantage over traditional regenerative systems.

i-ELOOP also teams up with Mazda’s start/stop technology to keep the engine off longer.

Rather than developing alternative powertrains, the company is committed to improving the efficiency of internal combustion engines, first with a number of SKYACTIV technologies, and now i-ELOOP.