Stop-start technology isn’t widely available in the U.S. outside of hybrid vehicles. However, as automakers push for high fuel economy ratings, it’s expected to find its way into more vehicles with conventional gasoline powertrains.
Stop-start technology turns an engine off when a vehicle is at traffic stops. When the driver presses on the gas pedal, the engine starts up again. This relatively inexpensive technology can improve fuel economy by 10 percent or more.
According to Miami Mazda Dealers, Mazda is one automaker expected to embrace stop-start tech. Already, Mazda’s i-stop is part of its SKYACTIV strategy and has already been put to use in the recently updated Mazda2 that’s currently available in Japan.
Unfortunately, the SKYACTIV-infused Mazda2 won’t be heading to the United States anytime soon. However, SKYACTIV will be coming to Mazda showrooms here as early as this fall when the refreshed Mazda3 arrives.
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