February 20, 2022

Mazda To Run Endurance Series With Bio-Diesel Powered Mazda2


After running races powered by a next-generation biodiesel last year, Mazda has committed to racing the entire 2022 Super Taikyu Series using the cutting-edge fuel. The Mazda2 Bio concept which runs the Skyactiv-D diesel engine will use Susteo, a 100 percent bio-derived next-generation bio-diesel.

The Super Taikyu Series features seven rounds, starting at Suzuka on the 19th March. The flagship event is the 24 Hours of Fuji in June, with the remaining races being of five- or six-hour duration. Across its multi-class structure there are classes for GT3, GT4, and TCR bespoke race cars, plus five classes for production-based cars.

Just like last year, the Mazda2 will run in the ST-Q class hoping to demonstrate support for the use of next-generation biodiesel as an option to achieve carbon neutrality. The 1.5-liter Skyactiv-D will run on a fuel made from used cooking oil and microalgae fats made by Tokyo-based Euglena.

The bio-diesel Mazda2 will feature a new silver livery (the lead photo shows the 2021 car). From the third round onwards, it will be joined by a Mazda MX-5 running in the ST-5 production class.

Mazda is following a comprehensive strategy called the multi-solution approach, which takes into account all available solutions to reach climate neutrality and to suit individual mobility needs as well as regional conditions. Mazda intends to expand its powertrain lineup by investing in conventional hybrids, diesel engine models, pure EV models, and plug-in hybrid models, while at the same time promoting initiatives in renewable fuels such as 100 percent bio-based fuels.

Next-generation biodiesel fuels, which are made from sustainable raw materials such as microalgae fats and used cooking oil, do not compete with food crops, which has been an issue with existing bio-diesel fuels. As these fuels can also be used as alternatives to diesel fuel in existing vehicles and equipment without any modification, no additional fuel supply infrastructure is required. Therefore, biodiesel fuels can be expected to play a prominent role as an excellent liquid fuel source in promoting carbon neutrality.

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