Mazda eyes more Chinese-developed EVs

Mazda is considering tapping its Chinese joint-venture partner for more electric vehicles (EVs), which could potentially be sold globally.

The EZ-6/6e liftback, developed with Changan Automobile, has already been confirmed for various global markets, with an SUV to follow by 2027 – development of which is “progressing smoothly”.

Now, in announcing its new Lean Asset Strategy, Mazda has confirmed it’s considering developing an additional two models with Changan.

These would launch between 2028 and 2030, though it’s unclear if they’ll be exclusive to China.

Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.

The EZ-6 liftback – which is being exported from China as the 6e – is based on Changan’s Deepal L07.

Last year, Mazda also revealed the Arata concept, previewing a new electric SUV that could be sold as the EZ-60 in China and exported as the CX-6e, according to trademark filings.

At the time of its reveal, Mazda confirmed it was scheduled for mass production by the end of 2025.

The rollout of these additional Chinese-developed Mazdas would be in tandem with the company’s launch of vehicles developed in-house.

It’s planning its first completely in-house EV on a dedicated EV platform, which is due in 2027. It’s unclear what shape this vehicle will take.

It’s also considering derivatives of this model for launch between 2028 and 2030. One of these could be a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version.

Mazda says its in-house EV platform will allow the powertrain’s output to be controlled by the amount of turning of the steering wheel, “optimising” the load on the front and rear tyres and thereby allowing for greater control and enjoyable driving dynamics.

The company says it’s being an “intentional follower for BEV”, with a multi-solution strategy that will see it continue to invest in combustion-engine technology as well as hybrids, plug-in hybrids and EVs.

In 2022, Mazda said its electrification investment between that year and 2030 would be 1.5 trillion Yen, which was set to rise to 2 trillion Yen (A$21bn) due to inflation.

Mazda now expects to be able to keep its total investment at 1.5 trillion Yen (A$15.8bn), helped in part by greater reliance on Changan for batteries.

The company is also tapping Toyota, Denso and Blue Nexus for electric architectures and powertrains and driver-assist systems.

Mazda has ruled out building a dedicated plant in Japan for its upcoming in-house EV, arguing it makes more sense to have the flexibility offered by building it at the same plant as combustion-powered vehicles.

This not only reduces investment by a claimed 85 per cent, but also shortens the lead time for production preparation by 80 per cent.