Typically regenerative braking is associated with hybrids, and for good reason. The innovative technology can help give the electric powetrain in a hybrid model a bit more kick in order to increase the miles that it can travel on a tank of gas. This, however, does not mean that the tech is limited to hybrid models, as Mazda is now proving.

We here at Menlo Mazda are quite excited for a new regenerative braking system that can be used in almost any vehicle on the road today. It's known as the Mazda Intelligent Energy Loop or simply i-ELOOP, and it takes the basic principles of a regenerative braking system and takes them to the next level.

First, there's how it works. Rather than simply drawing power from the friction that braking will cause, the new Mazda system also stores kinetic energy that's created when the vehicle's natural deceleration. This means that while a typical system would begin collecting energy when the brake pedal is pushed, this new Mazda system will collect energy the moment the driver's foot leaves the accelerator.

What will this extra energy be used for? Right now, Mazda is saying that it will be used to power the electrical components found in the vehicle, such as climate control and audio. Of course, there are still those out there who are claiming that this new system is simply a precursor to a new Mazda hybrid model, but we're more inclined to believe the automaker themselves.

What about you? Do you think this new system proves that Mazda has hybrid plans in the near future? Or is this simply another green initiative aimed at the current lineup of vehicles? Leave us a comment to share what you think!

Of course, if you're more interested in actually driving one of the new Mazda models that we carry here at 543 El Camino Real Redwood City, CA 94063, then feel free to contact us online or by phone at (888) 593-6393. We can arrange a test drive on models like the MAZDA5, Mazda Tribute, and Mazda CX-9, and we can also help you figure out financing as well. Unsure of how to best maintain your Mazda once you drive it off the lot? Bring it right back to the experts at our Mazda parts and vehicle service departments. Overall, we can make the entire car-buying and owning process a breeze, and we look forward to hearing from you soon!