Mazda’s microalgae biodiesel plan shows Mazda still treating diesel as part of its future, provided the fuel itself can change
Japan’s New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization has chosen a Mazda project to develop microalgae biodiesel for its fiscal 2026 decarbonisation programme. The automaker aims to use the fuel as factory fill for every diesel vehicle built at its Japanese plants from the early 2030s.
Mazda will cover algae cultivation and lipid extraction, while Idemitsu Kosan helps study turning the lipids into hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO). Mazda says microalgae need little space and pose minimal risk to food supplies or forests.
The scale-up ahead is considerable. After research dating back to the 2010s, Mazda has produced more than a litre of fuel in about two weeks from a 1,000-litre tank, and it has disclosed no production targets or funding.
In a statement, Takeji Kojima, Director, Corporate Leadership Executive Officer and Chief Strategy Officer of Mazda, said: “In response to the critical challenge of achieving carbon neutrality, Mazda is working with partner companies and government organizations that share the same vision to help build a regionally based circular energy society under its Multi-Solution Strategy. Through the widespread adoption of biodiesel fuel (HVO) derived from microalgae, we aim to contribute to greater domestic energy self-sufficiency, sustainable regional development, and enhanced industrial competitiveness. Looking ahead to 2035, we remain committed to realizing Mazda’s vision: “The Joy of Driving Fuels a Sustainable Tomorrow.””
Source: Mazda
Source: www.automotiveworld.com
