Mazda Unveils First Dedicated EV Plans: What We Know

After years of cautious observation, Mazda is making its move into the electric vehicle world. The Japanese automaker recently announced plans to build its first dedicated EV from scratch on an all-new platform, with production staying right in its home country.

What’s Actually Happening?

Mazda hasn’t exactly been rushing to join the EV race, but things are changing. On Monday, they revealed plans for a new battery module facility in Japan that will use Panasonic Energy’s cylindrical lithium-ion cells. They’re aiming to produce up to 10 GWh of battery modules yearly – enough to power their upcoming purpose-built electric cars.

Mazda Taking It Step by Step

Rather than diving in headfirst, Mazda has mapped out a three-phase approach to electrification:

First, they’ll improve existing technology while gradually shifting focus. Next comes a new hybrid system and EVs specifically for the Chinese market. Finally, they’ll commit fully to EVs with dedicated battery production.

By 2030, Mazda expects electric vehicles to make up between 25% and 40% of what they sell worldwide.

Testing the Waters in China

Mazda already dipped its toes in China last October with the EZ-6 electric sedan, developed with partner Changan Mazda. Starting at about $19,200, it comes in two flavors:

• A fully electric version with about 372 miles of range (on China’s CLTC cycle)
• An extended-range model for those with range anxiety

The all-electric version can charge from 30% to 80% in just 15 minutes.

Size-wise, it’s comparable to a Tesla Model 3, and Mazda didn’t skimp on features. It sports a 14.6-inch screen, head-up display with augmented reality, reclining “zero-gravity” seats, and voice control.

The EZ-6 hit the ground running, with nearly 2,500 sales in November alone, making it a top performer among mid-size new energy sedans from joint ventures in China.

Looking Ahead

While the EZ-6 shows promise, Mazda’s first truly in-house EV isn’t expected until 2027. Whether it’ll follow the EZ-6’s design language or go in a completely different direction is anybody’s guess.

What’s certain is that Mazda is finally getting serious about electric vehicles – and they’re just getting started.

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