Zoomi Life

In 2006, Mazda first introduced the hybrid version of their popular Tribute SUV.  Since then, they’ve come of age and are some very efficient machines.  These aren’t the best hybrids on the road, of course, but until mainstream America decides to give up on SUVs altogether, these are some of the better ones, I think.

The Tribute hybrid has a 2.3L MZR engine and puts out up to 99kW for the battery and motor.  The motor itself is a 70kW AC unit which powers the SUV during low-speed driving and it supplements the motor during normal driving.  It also acts as the generator for regenerative braking.

The Tribute uses a NiMH battery system at 330V with controllers, which charge in about seven hours.  The generator on the engine is also the vehicle’s starter.  The reasons for this will be clear.

The vehicle runs all-electric up to about 40km/h with electric boost to the engine after that.  This increases efficiency by 32% on highways and a whopping 74% in lower-speed applications in town. The Tribute also automatically shuts off the engine when idling for more than a few seconds, and since acceleration doesn’t require the engine, restarting can happen while you’re already accelerating from a light or from parked.  The Tribute drives nearly 400 miles on one tank of gas thanks to all this.

The Tribute qualifies as an AT-PZEV in California.  For those who just won’t give up their SUVs, this might be the answer.

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