Earlier this week we reported on how Mazda CEO Takashi Yamanouchi stated that Mazda would not produce hybrid vehicles. Instead he said that, “Our new gasoline engines will achieve the same fuel economy as current diesel engines, and our diesel engines will achieve similar fuel economy as existing hybrids.”

Well things have changed significantly in the last couple days. Now, Yamanouchi has been quoted as saying that Mazda is committed to producing hybrid vehicles by 2015.

Mazda’s previously stated plan was based on its belief that by 2015 only 10 percent of vehicles driven will be alternative systems like hybrid and electric and that they would focus on aerodynamics, weight reduction and rolling resistance while introducing an engine that is 20 percent more efficient in 2011.

But for whatever reason, Mazda is giving mixed signals about its plans for the future. Whereas previously they considered hybrids too expensive for the mainstream auto market, they are now committing to building them. Insert head scratch here.

Mazda, yet to jump on the EV or hybrid bandwagon, is at least taking steps to revamp their vehicles for the sake of the environment. And they also make promises to begin production on hybrids and electric vehicles, but not until 2015.

Yes, the brand that has you singing “zoom-zoom” after their ads air, is planning to focus on a more cost-effective venture for now, focusing on fuel efficiency and weight reduction in all of its vehicles with the goal to increase fuel efficiency 30 percent by 2015.

According to Mazda CEO Takashi Yamanouchi, “Our new gasoline engines will achieve the same fuel economy as current diesel engines, and our diesel engines will achieve similar fuel economy as existing hybrids.”

Mazda hopes that with these changes, they can offer eco-friendly vehicles that are more accessible to the mass market. Along with weight reduction to their fleet, Mazda plans to add improved aerodynamics and low rolling-resistance tires to their vehicles.

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