Mazda 2007 Annual Report Download - page 22
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Supply and Manufacturing
We consider our overriding management focuses to be:
1) ensuring efficient capacity expansion matched with growth,
2) enhancing the quality and cost competitiveness of our existing
footprint and 3) working toward future capacity expansion based
on sales demand. We will expand capacity based on market
demand and available resources while leveraging
efficiencies in Japan.
At our production bases in Japan, we will raise
production capacity efficiently, swiftly and with
minimum investment. Specifically, we will raise
production capacity at our Hiroshima and Hofu
plants by 98,000 units, to 996,000 units, by the
end of 2007. In terms of powertrains, in October
2006, we raised production capacity of the MZR
engine and automatic transmissions, and we will
continue to increase engine production capacity in
the future.
Overseas, we introduced Mazda’s manufacturing
methods and smoothly launched the Nanjing plant.
This engine factory began operations in April 2007.
At present, the plant is mass-producing BZ-series
engines. Before the end of 2007, we also aim to
begin operations at a new vehicle assembly plant
that is slated to manufacture the new Mazda2 for
the Chinese market.
We will maximize production at overseas plants
and focus on boosting quality and cost competi-
tiveness. In North America, we will strive to raise
the efficiency of AutoAlliance International. We have introduced
Mazda’s manufacturing methods and are endeavoring to raise
the quality and cost competitiveness of the Mazda6. In the
ASEAN region, initiatives are in place to cultivate local technical
staff and other employees through AutoAlliance Thailand.
Mazda Cumulative Domestic
Production Reaches 40 Million Units
In July 2007, Mazda held a commem-
orative ceremony to mark its 40
millionth unit of cumulative production
in Japan—a level achieved 75 years
and nine months after beginning
production of three-wheeled trucks in
1931. At the ceremony, President
Imaki noted, “The support of our
customers allowed Mazda to reach
this milestone. It is also the result of
the steadfast efforts of the many
employees and people associated
with Mazda who have worked together
from our founding to the present.
Mazda’s appetite for embracing
challenges and its spirited corporate
culture drive us to develop new
technologies and create new value.
Achieving this record is a breakthrough
on our road to further growth, and
Mazda will continue to provide its
customers with cars that look inviting
to drive, are fun to drive and make
you want to drive them again.”