Mazda has finally stepped up with plans to build its first dedicated EV. The upcoming Mazda EV will be made in Japan and based on a new in-house facility. Here's what we know about it so far.
The first dedicated Mazda EV is coming soon
While Mazda isn't the first brand that comes to mind when you think of electric cars, the Japanese automaker is taking things a step further.
Mazda revealed on Monday that it plans to build a new pocket module factory in Japan for cylindrical lithium-ion battery cells.
The new plant will use Panasonic Energy battery cells to produce EV battery modules and packs. Mazda plans to have a capacity of up to 10 GWh per year at this facility. The battery packs will power Mazda's first dedicated EV, which will also be built in Japan using a new electric vehicle platform.
Mazda said it is “gradually preparing electrification technology” under its 2030 Management Plan. The strategy calls for a three-phase approach until 2030.
The first phase calls for the use of existing technology. In the second phase, Mazda will introduce a new hybrid system and dedicated EV vehicles in China.
The third and final phase calls for the “full launch” of EVs and battery production. By 2030, Mazda expects EVs to account for 25% to 40% of global sales.
Mazda launched the EZ-6, an electric sedan, in China last October. It starts at 139,800 yuan, or about $19,200, and is made by its Chinese partner, Changan Mazda.
Based on Changan's hybrid platform, the electric sedan is offered with EV and extended range (EREV) options. The all-electric model reaches 600 km (372 miles) CLTC range and fast charging (30% to 80%) in 15 minutes.
At 4,921 mm long, 1,890 mm wide, and 1,485 mm long with a 2,895 mm wheelbase, Mazda's EZ-6 is about the same size as the Tesla Model 3 (4,720 mm long, 1,922 mm wide, and 1,441 mm long and 7 mm 2, wheelbase).
Inside, the electric sedan features a modern setup with a 14.6″ infotainment, a 10.1″ driver display screen, and a 50″ AR display. It also includes zero-gravity recliners and smart features like voice control.
The EZ-6 has already started selling hot, with 2,445 models sold in November. According to Changan Mazda, the new EV is one of the top three mid-size new energy vehicle (NEV) sedans in joint ventures sold in China in the first month listed.
Will Mazda's first dedicated EV look like the EZ-6? We'll find out about Mazda aiming to launch the first EV models at its new in-house in 2027. Stay tuned for more.
FTC: We use auto affiliate links to earn income. More.