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Mazda is a Japanese automaker known for its sleek designs, efficient engines, and innovative technologies. The company has a rich history, spanning over nine decades, and has come a long way since its humble beginnings. In this blog post, we will explore the history of Mazda and its journey to becoming one of the world’s largest auto manufacturers.

The history of Mazda dates back to 1920 when it was founded as Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., Ltd. in Hiroshima, Japan. The company started out producing cork products, and later moved on to manufacturing machine tools. In 1931, Toyo Cork Kogyo began producing three-wheeled trucks called “Mazda-Go” that were used for commercial purposes. The trucks were named after the Zoroastrian god Ahura Mazda, which was also the name of one of the company’s founders, Jujiro Matsuda.

In 1936, Toyo Cork Kogyo changed its name to Mazda Motor Corporation and started producing passenger cars. However, the outbreak of World War II put a halt to Mazda’s car production, and the company shifted its focus to producing military vehicles. After the war ended, Mazda resumed car production and introduced its first passenger car, the R360, in 1960. The R360 was a small, lightweight car that was designed for the Japanese market and became a huge success.

In the 1960s, Mazda began exporting its cars to the United States and other countries. The company’s rotary engine technology, which it had been developing since the 1950s, gained popularity around the world. Mazda’s rotary engine was smaller, lighter, and more powerful than traditional engines, and was used in many of the company’s sports cars, including the RX-7 and RX-8.

Mazda continued to innovate and expand its product line over the years. In 1989, the company introduced its first SUV, the Mazda Navajo, which was based on the Ford Explorer. In 1991, Mazda launched its Miata sports car, which became a cult classic and is still produced today. In 2002, Mazda introduced its first hybrid car, the Mazda Tribute Hybrid, and in 2012, the company launched its first electric car, the Mazda Demio EV.

Today, Mazda is known for its stylish and reliable cars, as well as its commitment to sustainable mobility. The company has won numerous awards for its innovative technologies, including its Skyactiv engine technology, which improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions. Mazda also has a strong motorsports presence, competing in various races and rallies around the world.

In conclusion, Mazda has come a long way since its early days as a cork manufacturer. The company has been at the forefront of automotive innovation for decades, introducing new technologies and designs that have made its cars popular around the world. With its commitment to sustainability and passion for driving, Mazda looks set to continue making waves in the automotive industry for years to come.