Getting To Know Jinba-Ittai, Mazda's Philosophy In Achieved Success

Mazda MX-5 2023. (Doc. Mazda USA)

JAKARTA - Mazda, a vehicle manufacturer from Japan, has achieved tremendous success in the global automotive industry. One of the key factors in their success is the Jinba-Ittai philosophy adopted by this manufacturer.

Jinba-Ittai philosophy emphasizes the inseparable relationship between drivers and vehicles. For three generations, this philosophy has continued to develop and has succeeded in captivating the hearts of automotive lovers around the world.

Ricky Thio, Managing Director of PT Eurokars Indonesia, revealed that Jinba-Ittai's philosophy is well known in Indonesia, especially among Mazda lovers and car owners. Through Jinba-Ittai, Mazda is able to provide added value to its customers.

"Jinba-Ittai is a value that we always communicate, as Mazda products are born from the Japanese Takumi and are intertwined with a philosophy that is very interested to be shared with customers in Indonesia," Ricky said in an official statement on Friday, July 7.

This narrative comes from Tetsu Kasahara, Assistant Manager of the Chassis Dynamics Development Department, Division of Vehicle Development, which is responsible for the development of the first generation MX-5 model.

Initially, Kasahara experienced an experience that changed her life when driving the prototype of the car, where she felt the perfect unity between herself and the car. This moment became the starting point of Jinba-Ittai's philosophy, which is the strong bond between the driver and the car she was driving.

Originally known as Jinsha Ittai, which means unity between the car and the driver, this term later developed into Jinba-Ittai, inspired by the close relationship between the horse and its rider.

The Kasahara not only pursues speed on the track, but also to design a unique sensation of joy and pleasure in driving a convertible car. It spends a lot of time perfecting the chassis dynamics, piloting a prototype around the Miyoshi Proving Ground, making careful adjustments, and collecting valuable data.

Yasuyoshi Mushitani, Technical Leader Chassis Dynamics, also plays an important role in Jinba-Ittai's philosophy. Joining Mazda in 1988, he initially worked as a test driver for vehicle resistance, where he honed his technical skills.

Under the guidance of the Kasahara, Mushitani studied the suspension and dynamics of chassis, and became an expert in technical knowledge. His knowledge encourages him to lead the development of various Mazda models.

Hiroshi Kawata, Assistant Manager of Chassis Dynamics, Department of Development, Division of Vehicle Development, passed on this legacy in introducing the Jinba-Ittai concept to Mazda MX-5 ND at this time.

The Jinba-Ittai philosophy has been part of Mazda's long journey in the development of various models, and also includes the identity of the brand, including in terms of safety and design.