I-Eloop - Mazda MX-5 Owner's Manual

When Driving

i-ELOOP

i-ELOOP is a regenerative braking system. When you depress the brake pedal or use
engine braking, the kinetic energy that occurs is converted to electrical energy by the power
generator and the converted electrical energy is stored in the rechargeable battery (capacitor
and battery). The stored electricity is used as power to charge the battery and the vehicle's
electrical devices.
A variable voltage alternator is incorporated in the power generator which converts
the kinetic energy to electricity and can generate electricity ef ciently according to the
vehicle conditions.
A capacitor is used to store large amounts of electricity instantly which can be utilized
quickly.
A DC-DC converter is incorporated which steps down the stored electricity to voltage
useable by the vehicle's electrical devices.
Accelerator OFF
Energy
regeneration
Engine
Tyre
Accelerator ON
Engine
Tyre
4–90
*Some models.
i-ELOOP
Charge
Variable
voltage
alternator
Capacitor
Variable
voltage
alternator
Capacitor
*
Power
DC-DC converter
Power
DC-DC converter
Kinetic energy
Electrical power
Battery
Vehicle electric
devices
Battery
Vehicle electric
devices